What is a 'call queue' in the context of emergency dispatching?

A 'call queue' refers to a system that manages incoming emergency calls by holding them in line until they can be answered by a dispatcher. In the context of emergency dispatching, this is crucial because it ensures that all incoming emergency requests are accounted for and addressed in a timely manner, particularly when call volumes are high.

It allows dispatchers to respond to emergencies in the order they are received, promoting efficiency and better resource allocation. Properly managing a call queue helps ensure that callers do not remain waiting indefinitely when they are in need of urgent assistance, as prioritization will often occur based on the nature of the call.

While tracking the duration of each call, creating a list of callers in order of urgency, and sharing notes among dispatchers are important aspects of the dispatch process, they do not define what a call queue is. These functions support the overall efficiency and effectiveness of a call center, but they operate on different principles than the basic functionality of a call queue itself.