Project RETAINS

CSSR is working with the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) International's Project RETAINS (Responsive Efforts to Address Integral Needs in Staffing) to address the staffing crisis in the public safety communications industry. In 2000, APCO International began a study to address issues related to the existing crisis in recruiting, hiring, and retaining qualified personnel to staff 9-1-1- calltaker and public safety dispatcher positions. The study identified causes for the recruitment and retention issues, developed an “Effective Practices” document and created the Project RETAINS “toolkit” to assist communication centers in addressing the challenges associated with hiring and retaining qualified personnel. CSSR will is conducting a follow-up study that will help guide the development of the next generation of Project RETAINS.