Welcome to the Telecommunicator's Corner

How to become part of the Texas Emergency Response Taskforce.

Step 1: Complete the prequisites for attending the TERT Basic Course

Step 2: Attend the TERT Basic Course

Step 3: Stay abreast of developments in TERT qualifications, additional training, and opportunties by keeping in touch with your county and regional coordinator(s).

Step 4: Keep your contact information current in the TERT database so when disaster strikes, we'll know we can count on you. Contact Laura Litzerman at 817-695-9205.

To ensure you are adequately prepared and have essential items available prior to deployment, review the Preparation/Packing for Deployment Checklist.

The following is from the APCO/NENA ANS Standard for Telecommunicator Emergency Response Taskforce (TERT) Deployment.

6.2	Criteria for TERT Members All members should meet the following qualifications and skills in addition to meeting national minimum training requirements or equivalent:
	6.2.1	Pass a criminal background check performed by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)
	6.2.2	All TERT member agencies should follow the vaccination/immunization guidelines outlined in the CDC guidance document titled Immunization Recommendations For Disaster Responders . In summary, the CDC recommends that:
		6.2.2.1	All First Responders have a Tetanus immunization or booster if the original immunization is more than 10 years old. The preferred variety is Tdap (tetanus/diphtheria/ pertussis).
		6.2.2.2	The Hepatitis B immunization may be beneficial but is only recommended for First Responders who may have direct patient contact or contact with bodily fluids. Telecommunicators typically should not be exposed to such situations. The decision for Hepatitis B is left to the discretion of the AHJ.
		6.2.2.3	The Hepatitis A immunization is not recommended for First Responders working on situations in the United States.
	6.2.3	Have a signed letter from agency director acknowledging/approving participation in TERT on file with TERT State Coordinator (renewed by January 1 of even-numbered years). An employee who has been cross-trained both as a Calltaker and a Dispatcher shall automatically be classified as a Telecommunicator (see Attachment J, TERT State Coordinator letter).
	6.2.4	Completion of NJTI Deployment Awareness Training Course
	6.2.5	Successful completion of all relevant and current NIMS training course identified in Attachment L.
	6.2.6	Possess positive interpersonal communication and leadership skills
	6.2.7	Be flexible and energetic
	6.2.8	Be an excellent multi-tasker and problem solver
	6.2.9	Be assertive in a positive manner
	6.2.10	Be an outstanding team player
	6.2.11	Maintain aboveaverage annual performance reviews with no chronic work problems
	6.2.12	Possess an excellent working knowledge of the appropriate public safety emergency response operation and equipment as it relates to the member's role
	6.2.13	Possess an ability to adapt and be flexible with different policies, procedures, equipment and geographic areas
	6.2.14	Possess an ability to adapt to poor environmental conditions such as no beds, cold meals, no running water, etc.
	6.2.15	Possess excellent people and teamwork skills inclusive of cultural diversity
	6.2.16	Possess excellent documentation skills

TX-TERT Promotional Items

Various promotional items are available for purchase. Each item will have the TX-TERT logo embroidered on it. A minimum of six items is required per order. Click here for more information.