Over the years there have been several systems of dispatcher numbers.

Years ago each borough had its own unique dispatcher numbers determined by the borough's Chief Dispatcher. In the early 1970's a high department official determined that it would be possible for the same dispatcher number to be on duty at two different borough offices at the same time.

The numbering system was changed, the dispatchers would now use their badge numbers as dispatcher numbers. This would solve the duplication problem.

Around the mid 1970's another high department official determined that dispatcher numbers should be a little more structured. Since we had the five group system, numbers were now determined by group and seniority. For example: in group 3 the boss would be dispatcher 31, the next in command dispatcher 32, and so on.

One day, yet another high department official called each borough communications office to get some information, asking for the supervisor each time and getting the same dispatcher number. He couldn't figure this out.

Shortly after this incident, the numbering system was again changed to the system still in use today the seniority system. The most senior dispatcher is 101 and so on.

Fire Alarm Dispatchers, when receiving a relayed phone alarm from a 911 dispatcher, will exchange dispatcher numbers as part of an established protocol.

The following exchange took place during the early morning hours when things are a little loose. After all the info regarding the alarm was concluded:
911 dispatcher (female): what's your number?
me: 6 & 7/8
911 dispatcher: 6 & 7/8, what kind of number is that?
me: We have a new numbering system here, we now use our hat size, what your number?
911 dispatcher: 38C (Stan Ferber)

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Thanks, Ira Hoffman