For keeping their cool during a county emergency crisis, three local E-911 dispatchers were recognized for their work during the March 1 winter storm that dropped up to a foot of snow on Carroll County.

Dispatchers Tim Webb, Anita Black and Star Jones were all presented with certificates of appreciation during the Carroll County Board of Supervisors’ March 9 meeting. Carroll County Administrator Gary Larrowe said 33 vehicular accident calls came in the evening of March 1 alone, in addition to numerous other medical calls.

“We had a few snowflakes. As a result of that there was some accidents and a multitude of events that were taking place in Carroll County and the surrounding area...911 had to be called a lot,” Larrowe said. “I was listening to the radio myself as well as many other folks and the emergency services in general did an absolutely excellent job. As a matter of fact, we had a fire truck that was hit. One of the shining stars was our set of 911 dispatchers.”

Carroll County Emergency Services Coordinator Joe Roma was so impressed with the work of Webb, Black and Jones, he penned a letter to Galax officials that head up the E-911 center in Galax.

“On March 1 here in the snowstorm, Carroll Fire and Rescue was inundated with emergency calls. I would like to commend Tim Webb for the efficient manner in which he handled the dispatch during what might be considered a harrowing experience,” Roma wrote. “His calm head and professionalism made our job run smoothly. This also is extended to the assistance of the other dispatchers that were there during the 911 calls.”

Supervisors Chairman David Hutchins said he didn’t know how the dispatchers were able to keep all the chatter straight. Larrowe said it was an example of the professionalism and character of volunteers locally.

“All of these were going on at the same time. It is just amazing and we definitely commend everyone that was involved,” Larrowe said. “It comes through their great training and leadership. We appreciate what all these volunteers do.”