911/Communications
It is important citizens use 911 for immediate public safety assistance only.
In any threatening situation requiring emergency intervention, dial 9-1-1. In non-emergency situations, contact the Lancaster County Sheriff's Office at 803-283-3388.
General Information
The Lancaster County Sheriff's Office provides 9-1-1 intake, Teletype and dispatch services for all unincorporated areas of Lancaster County and the incorporated towns of Kershaw and Heath Springs. 9-1-1 intake includes all emergency calls for fire, EMS and law enforcement emergencies.
The division functions 24/7 and is comprised of specially-trained communications operators who process an estimated 5,500 calls per month, while processing non-emergency telephone calls and radio transmissions as well. This division is staffed by 4 telecommunication specialists who work 24/7, 365 days a year and is supervised by 9-1-1 Coordinator Sandy Cauthen. Lieutenant Veronica Mayfield serves as the assistant to Sandy Cauthen.
The telecommunications operators also operate the links to the state and federal computer systems and process approximately 3,500 requests per month generated by deputy sheriffs and police officers. Typically, they seek information on wanted or missing persons, lost or stolen auto tags, stolen vehicles, driver's license status and stolen articles.
The 9-1-1 Coordinator acts as custodian for all audio recordings of police, EMS and fire rescue communications including incoming 9-1-1 calls and portable radio and dispatch transmissions. Governed by state law, the 9-1-1 Coordinator produces tapes for the Solicitor’s Office, private attorneys and public safety agencies. Nearly 300 requests are processed annually.
Enhanced 911
Enhanced 911 (E-911) provides Communications Center personnel with immediate address information on a 911 caller. This information is critical in providing immediate emergency services to citizens in need.
The system allows the emergency communications officer to record information immediately in case the caller hangs up or is disconnected before the necessary information has been gathered. If that happens, the 9-1-1 communications officer can call the person back. If there is no answer, a deputy is sent to the address to investigate.
If you call 911 in error, please do not hang up. Stay on the line and explain your situation.
Telecommunicator Training
Communications employees participate in a rigorous selection process which includes a written examination, oral interview board, mandated 8 hour observation period, criminal and credit background as well as a personal background investigation. Newly-hired operators complete a 40-hour 9-1-1 training course and a 40-hour NCIC certification course at the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy. Upon successful completion of these courses, the new operator then completes a 40-hour first responder course given at the Sheriff’s Office. All newly hired operators must then complete 6 weeks of on-the-job training before they are assigned to work on their own.
Applications
All applications for 9-1-1 telecommunications are accepted through the Human Resource Office located at the County Administration Building located at 101 N. Main St. in Lancaster. Applications are only accepted during specified times so please contact Human Resources at 803-416-9306 for information concerning applications.