Office of Unified Communications

On National First Responders Day, we recognize the dedication and courage of those who protect and serve our community. We also honor public safety telecommunicators, whose expertise and compassion help people through critical moments. Thank you to all who answer the call.

RT @MayorBowser: We just launched the District’s first comprehensive public safety recruitment campaign, DC Calls. Designed to build a pipeline of talent for several of the District’s public safety and justice agencies—we are investing in innovative recruitment strategies to showcase the purpose, impact, and opportunities available through careers in public safety. Learn more:

During this week of the training program, our 911 call taker trainees participated in a chairside exercise. Hands-on experience navigating complex systems outside the classroom is essential to understanding the role as they progress through the curriculum.

Honored to welcome @NHTSAgov Administrator Jonathan Morrison and Deputy Administrator Lee to OUC this week. Together, we explored the heart of 911 and 311 operations in the District and highlighted the vital role our team plays in traffic safety & emergency response.

RT @SafeDC: Ready to make a difference in DC? DC Calls is here to connect the next generation of public safety professionals with careers in policing, firefighting, and corrections. Answer the call to serve: Learn more ➡️

RT @MayorBowser: I’m proud that Director McGaffin will run though the tape with us before beginning her next chapter as Director of the Department of Emergency and Customer Communications for the City of Alexandria.

RT @DC_HSEMA: HSEMA is on scene supporting the response to a gas line rupture near 11th and E Streets NW. Gas service has been shut off and Pepco is working to restore power to affected areas. Road closures remain in effect. Please avoid the area, follow MPD directions, and expect delays.

RT @dcfireems: Earlier a gas line was ruptured during construction at Hotel Harrington. Due to the scope of the rupture, we had to shut off power to the site, which included the surrounding blocks. The gas to the building has now been shut off and Pepco is working to restore power.

RT @Metrobusinfo: C37 Service Alert: Expect southbound delays on Route C37 due to a route blockage. Track your bus in real time at

RT @AlertDC: [AlertDC] MPD reports an additional road closure in the 1000 block of Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, between 10th and 11th Streets due to fire department activity. Please use alternate routes.

RT @DCPoliceTraffic: Updated: Additional Road Closures ⛔️1100 Block of E St NW (NTE) ⛔️1000 Block of Pennsylvania Ave NW (NTW) 🚗Continue to follow the Authorities directions - Closures are subject to change

RT @DCPoliceTraffic: Attn: The following Road Closures are in place due to the gas leak at 436 11th St NW -- No vehicular or pedestrian traffic until further notice ⛔️500 thru 400 Blocks of 11th St NW (NTS) ⛔️1100 Blocks of E St NW (NTE) 🚗Seek alternate route or follow MPD directions

RT @AlertDC: [AlertDC] DC Fire is reporting the following road closures due to fire department activity. 400-500 blocks of 11th Street, NW, between F Street and Pennsylvania Avenue 1100 block of E Street, NW, between 11th and 12th Streets 1100 block of F Street, NW

RT @Metrobusinfo: P72 Service Alert: Expect eastbound delays on Route P72 due to an incident. Track your bus in real time by visiting

Last week, our Heroes in Headsets received 17,331 calls for service for police, fire, and EMS, and handled over 175 text-to-911 sessions with 92.75% of calls answered in 20 seconds or less. #WeAnswerTheCall

Director McGaffin and the OUC team had the privilege of welcoming the Fall 2026 cohort of the @DCPoliceDept Citizen Engagement Academy. Participants received an in-depth operations overview in the Simulation Lab, toured the call floor, and engaged in a Q&A session.

RT @dcfireems: During #FirePreventionMonth and year round, we are proud to partner with colleges and universities in the District on Fire Safety 101. Staff and students on and off campus, can learn more about fire safety, evacuations, smoke alarms, and more. Scan QR code below to schedule.

The Virginia Beach Emergency Communications & Citizen Services team visited OUC to tour THOR and engage in a productive exchange of best practices focused on redundancy and continuity of operations. We appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with our peers in public safety.

Last week, our Heroes in Headsets received 15,909 calls for service for police, fire, and EMS, and handled over 190 text-to-911 sessions with 95.88% of calls answered in 20 seconds or less. #WeAnswerTheCall

RT @DC_HSEMA: The #GreatShakeout Earthquake drill is tomorrow, October 15 at 10:15 AM! Join DC HSEMA and millions of people around the country for the largest earthquake drill in world. Practice earthquake safety at home, school, and work: - DROP to your hands and knees - COVER your head/neck with your arm and shelter under a sturdy table, desk or door frame - HANG ON until shaking stops Learn more: