Hero Criteria
Photo of a Group of Children

For the 9-1-1 system to work it takes a team. Each year we recognize members of the team who have gone above and beyond during the course of a 9-1-1 call.

Category Criteria
Telecommunicator Honors a public safety telecommunicator for demonstrating outstanding effort in processing a 9-1-1 call for emergency police, fire or medical emergency service or for actions while on duty above and beyond the normal course of duties.
Hero

Honors a private citizen for a life saving act in which quick thinking, fast action and heroism were demonstrated following the use of the emergency 9-1-1 system.
Youth Hero Honors a person 17 years of age or younger for quick thinking, fast action and heroism through the proper use of the emergency 9-1-1 system.
Special Recognition

Honors an individual, group or organization that has made an exceptional contribution to 9-1-1 in New Jersey on the local, regional, county or state level.
Nomination Process:
  • Nominations may be submitted through the County 9-1-1 Coordinator in the county where the event occurred or directly to OETS.
  • Nominations must be received no later than March 1 of each year.
  • Nominations and supporting materials will not be returned, send copies only.
  • Any interested 9-1-1, police, fire or EMS personnel or any organization or private citizen may submit a nomination.
  • Nominees for the telecommunicator award must be currently certified as required for the service they provide.
  • Nominations should include a signed and dated cover letter listing:

    • The category for which the nomination is being made.
    • The name and contact information for the individual or organization being nominated. Include a complete address and daytime telephone number.
    • The name and contact information for the individual or organization making the nomination. Include a complete address and daytime telephone number.
    • A description of the significant accomplishment or circumstance for which the nominee should be considered for the award. Include the name of the nominee's agency or organization where applicable.
    • When possible, include any audio, video, newspaper accounts or other supporting documentation covering the event for which the nomination is being made.
  • Nominations will be evaluated by OETS staff and members of the 9-1-1 Commission PSAP Committee. Nominators and nominees will be notified by OETS staff as to the status of the nomination and details of the award program.