DRPS Recognizes National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week and Presents David J. “Buzz” Bezzant Memorial Award

From April 12 to 18, 2026, the Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) is recognizing National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (NPSTW), an annual opportunity to acknowledge the critical role 9‑1‑1 Communicators play in public safety.

DRPS 9‑1‑1 Communicators are the first point of contact for individuals experiencing emergencies. They provide calm and professional guidance during moments of crisis, gather critical information, and support police officers and emergency responders during rapidly evolving and high‑risk incidents. Their work is essential to effective emergency response and community safety.

National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week recognizes the professionalism, skill, and resilience required of communicators who manage high‑pressure situations while remaining composed, focused, and compassionate.

As part of this week of recognition, Chief Peter Moreira presented the 2026 David J. “Buzz” Bezzant Memorial Award to Danielle Inward, a 9‑1‑1 Communicator with the Service since 2016. The peer-nominated award is presented annually to a 9‑1‑1 Communicator in recognition of excellence, outstanding performance, and meaningful contributions to public safety.

Danielle was nominated by her colleagues for her exceptional professionalism, calm under pressure, and consistent leadership—qualities demonstrated during multiple high‑stress and critical incidents. Peer nominations highlighted her ability to manage rapidly evolving situations with clarity and composure, ensuring effective communication and support for responding officers and fellow communicators.

Nominators also emphasized Danielle’s commitment to teamwork and mentorship within Communications, describing her as a trusted colleague, supportive trainer, and steady presence on the floor.

The award is named in honour of David J. “Buzz” Bezzant, whose legacy continues through the work of communicators who exemplify excellence in service, professionalism, and dedication to public safety.

During National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, DRPS recognizes all members of its Communications unit for the vital role they play in keeping the community safe and congratulates Danielle Inward on being selected as the 2026 recipient of the David J. “Buzz” Bezzant Memorial Award.

About the David J. “Buzz” Bezzant Memorial Award

The David J. “Buzz” Bezzant Memorial Award was created to honour David James “Buzz” Bezzant, who worked as a telecommunicator with Oshawa Ambulance before joining the DRPS 9‑1‑1 Communications unit in 1981. Known throughout Durham Region for his calm and caring voice, Buzz served his community for more than 34 years and retired from DRPS in 2015. He passed away in 2022 following a brief illness. The award recognizes 9‑1‑1 Communicators who demonstrate outstanding skills and is presented annually during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.

For more information, please contact Public Information Advisor Kristie Jones 905-579-1520 ext. 4353.

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