The Cobb County Department of Emergency Communications (DEC) has carved out a significant achievement by earning the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch's (IAED) Triple Accredited Center of Excellence (Tri-ACE) status, becoming the 27th agency worldwide to do so. According to information from Cobb County Government's official announcement, the DEC's commendation is for its proficiency in emergency police, fire, and medical dispatch.
This recognition was granted after a thorough examination process, where the DEC previously received its 79th ACE in emergency fire dispatch. Completing this triad, they are one of only three emergency communications centers, and the first county agency in Georgia to acquire Tri-ACE accolades. Director Melissa Alterio highlighted the significance of this achievement, saying, “Achieving Tri-ACE Status in less than a year is a remarkable feat. This was a months-long effort requiring consistency, accountability, commitment, and care,” in a statement mirrored by Cobb County Government's news release.
The award underscores the DEC's stellar performance which encompasses comprehensive training, rigorous quality assurance programs, and a solid commitment to public service. Together, the Operations Division and the Training & Quality Assurance Unit of the DEC labored through the demanding 20 Points of Accreditation, ensuring their practice aligns with the IAED's esteemed standards for emergency communication centers.
A notable mention for the DEC will come at the 2026 Navigator Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada, where they will be formally recognized for their Tri-ACE status and receive an accreditation plaque to celebrate their journey to excellence. With over 3,500 emergency communications centers around the globe, IAED's ACE Accreditation is a coveted seal of approval, delineating protocol-based emergency systems that have proven their competence and reliability, according to details found in the news release from Cobb County Government.
