Those working behind the scenes in the public safety community are being recognized this week.

National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week takes place across Canada from April 9 to 15.

Telecommunicators are known by some as the first “first responders” and “heroes behind the headset.”

The operators serve as a critical link between citizens and provide the community with access to the help they need.

They answer emergency calls, dispatch first responders and equipment, and render life-saving assistance, among other duties.

National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week is held every year during the second week of April.