The Owen County Communications Center is the vital link between the community and first responders—serving as the 24/7 hub for all emergency and non-emergency communications within the county.
Staffed by a dedicated team of state-certified communication officers, the center coordinates response efforts across law enforcement, EMS, and fire services. These highly trained professionals manage multiple radio channels, phone systems, and public safety technologies to ensure rapid, reliable support whenever it’s needed most.
Whether answering 911 calls or dispatching critical resources, the Communication Center plays a central role in keeping Owen County safe, connected, and prepared.
Responsibilities
The center is responsible for receiving and dispatching calls for:
- Owen County Sheriff’s Office
- Spencer Police Department
- Gosport Police Department
- Owen County Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
- Nine in-county volunteer fire departments: Cataract, Wayne-Harrison-Montgomery, Gosport, Patricksburg, Spencer, Owen Valley, Clay Township, Coal City, and Franklin Township
- Three mutual-aid fire departments: Poland, Cloverdale, and Bowling Green
Operations
Dispatchers at the Owen County Dispatch Center manage:
- 5 administrative phone lines
- 4 emergency 911 lines
- Two-way radio communication across multiple public safety agencies
- NCIC/IDACS terminal operations
- Operation of all external doors and intercom systems at the Owen County Security Center (OCSC)
Dispatchers also provide walk-in assistance at the OCSC, helping residents with questions, concerns, or emergency needs.
Certification
All communication officers are certified IDACS terminal operators by the State of Indiana. Ongoing training ensures that the team is prepared to handle any situation with professionalism and precision.
Public Guidance
To assist dispatchers in helping you as quickly and effectively as possible during an emergency:
- Stay calm.
- Clearly describe the issue.
- Provide accurate directions or location.
- Remain on the line until the dispatcher advises otherwise.
The Owen County Dispatch Center is a critical part of the county’s public safety infrastructure, providing the link that connects citizens with the help they need, when they need it most.