An interview with Kristy Blackmon, first responder in Baldwin County, AL & Girls’ Ranch resident from 1994-2008.
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- Kristy in 1994 at the Girls’ Ranch
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- Kristy on the job
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- Kristy, Eric & Jace
What lessons learned at Big Oak help in your position as a First Responder?
Work ethic, perseverance, and compassion. In our position you never know what you will hear from a caller, and often the calls come in quickly. We are able to provide help with a team of caring individuals, staying on the line until trained professionals are on the scene, but sometimes you will not know the end result for the caller. These moments take me to Ephesians 6:10-19, reminding me to put on the whole armor of God, praying through His Spirit, keeping alert with perseverance. I know that Christ is always there, in all situations. I try to show the same compassion that was always shown to me at Big Oak.
Are there any moments in your life that help you relate and assist during emergency situations?
There have been many moments in my life when I felt alone. I am able to stay with my caller and advise them, knowing that I can be there with them until help arrives. It is a comfort to both myself and the caller to let them know that they are the most important call and I’m not going anywhere.
What gifts or talents do you bring to your job and those working with you?
I bring positivity to my position as a 911 Operator. I always have an upbeat attitude and I believe that it is contagious and needed in my job. There are many situations we see and work through that just need some uplifting words and music… and maybe even dancing to follow.
Is there a particular call or calls that are especially difficult and how did you work through those moments?
Death calls are always hard. I place my hope in the Lord and remember Ecclesiastes 3:1-13 where scripture reminds us that there is a time for everything, a to be born and a time to die. God’s purpose and plans for everyone are in place and He is always watching over us.
How do you productively process working with people during their most traumatic moments in life?
I respond to calls the way that I would want someone to comfort and speak to me or my family. We deal with traumatic situations that some people have never experienced. Our callers are scared! With Hurricane Sally, some of us were scared for others in our community. We were unaware of what the aftermath would look like. With proper training and understanding, I am able to be the calm voice in the storm.
Do you have a favorite story to share from your position as a First Responder?
I was able to send help for a caller who was trapped inside a piece of equipment that had rolled over into a lagoon. The caller was scared and I could hear the water rushing into the cab of the machine. I stayed on the phone with him while we dispatched help. I could hear the sirens as he disconnected. He later called back to thank me for getting him help so quickly. It’s because I work with a team of people who answer each call, who care for each caller and get help to anyone who needs it.
