Possibly just in time for Tropical Storm Hermine to hit the Triangle, Orange County has appointed a new Emergency Services director. Dinah Jeffries, the new director, has worked in the department for 33 years, making her way from a 9-1-1 telecommunicator up to her most recent post, interim director.

Jeffries’ extensive background in emergency services makes her uniquely prepared to lead the Orange County department, officials said when announcing her hire. She has specialized training in the areas of emergency medical and emergency fire dispatch, as well as training through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Orange County manager Bonnie Hammersley said she had faith in Jeffries to successfully serve Orange County.

“Dinah knows the public safety leaders in the area and the Orange County staff she will be leading,” Hammersley said. “There will be no need for transition time. She is already on the ground running.”

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