Approximately 10 thousand calls come in to Saskatoon Fire & Protective Services each year. Each time the phone rings at Central Communications, fire dispatchers must be prepared for the worst. Utilizing state of the art technology, dispatchers provide responding units with specific information about the geographic areas covered. The Computer Aided Dispatch system gives a computerized territorial view as well as an area view of the specific area where the call originates from. Dispatchers must be able to assess the situation, dispatch the appropriate crews and apparatus, and determine if other resources will be immediately required. In large scale operations dispatchers are required to contact the appropriate organizations to shut down power lines, provide medical back up, contact property owners and bring in special supplies. Central Communications also ensures all areas of the city remain protected at all times by relocating apparatus and personnel.