• Ash&Dreams: New Blog Post: First In Rescue Training http://t.co/D0hVjHD5 #hazmat #osha #rescue #

I recently started working with a local firefighter who has started to branch out in developing his own training company.  With the mass amounts of companies and organizations needing  CPR & First Aid training and fire departments looking for reasonably priced rescue training this seemed like a great idea.

First In Rescue Training exists to provide advanced safety and rescue training through real-life techniques and strategies, following OSHA mandated guidelines and independent company procedures; in order to create the highest level of employee preparedness and safety within the workplace.

They offer training in…

• Confined Space
• Trench
• CPR, AED, First Aid
• Fire Extinguishers
• HazMat
• OSHA

If you in IL and looking for a great training resource please check them out!

Their personnel are trainers of OSHA and Federal regulatory compliance regarding confined space entry and trenching. They customize every class to keep students interested. The have CPR/First-Aid trainers that are Licensed Paramedics and certified through American Heart.

They are currently scheduling classes for public works and fire departments, doctor's offices, schools and other private industries.

You can find out more about them here: First in Rescue Training

OR

Visit their Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/firstinrescuetraining

9/11 AMERICAN FLAG MEMORIAL, 8 a.m. Sept. 11, Fountain View Pavilion at Sun City, 12880 Del Webb Blvd., Huntley. The 10th anniversary program includes Marine Color Guard, Pledge of Allegiance, patriotic music, Taps, a narrative of the events of 9/11, Flag of Heroes, and more. The Warriors' Watch Riders will also participate in the ceremony. In case of rain, the event will take place in Drendel Ballroom.

9/11 MEMORIAL DEDICATION, 10 a.m. Sept. 11, Fire Station, 213 Spring St., Carpentersville. The Carpentersville Fire Department will host a dedication of the Carpentersville Fire Department Firefighter 9/11 Memorial during a ceremony. An open house will follow the dedication ceremony. Open to the public. Information: 847-344-7300 or jaschuldt@vil.carpentersville.il.us.

9/11 REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY, 9:30 a.m. Sept. 11, Center for Spiritual Evolution, 204 Spring St., Cary. The consciousness of healing during the ceremony will take place during the 10 a.m. service, preceded by a guided meditation at 9:30 a.m. Participants will be asked to write a note of honoring, love, forgiveness, gratitude, a vow to live more fully in unity, in remembrance of those who lost their life on 9/11 or in honor of those who risked their lives to aid others. The cards will be brought up to the remembrance table and placed face down with a tea candle on top of it. Information: 847-516-1950 or www.newthoughtmchenry.org.

9/11 REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY, 8 a.m. Sept. 11, Station No. 1, 4300 E. Wonder Lake Road, Wonder Lake. Sponsored by the Wonder Lake Fire Protection District. The event will be brief and include remarks by department Chaplain Dan Cox. Information: 815-728-0088.

9/11 REMEMBRANCE SERVICES IN JOHNSBURG, 9 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11. Commencing at 9 a.m. placement of 25 American flags that will make up the Circle of Flags on the lawn of the First Midwest Bank, next door to the Johnsburg Public Library, followed by a brief Remembrance Service. There will also be a 7:30 p.m. Candlelight Remembrance Service that will include a few words from Village President Ed Hetterman. Information: Barbara Klapperich, 815-385-8128, barbk9jingo@sbcglobal.net or visit: www.johnsburglibrary.org.

10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY CEREMONY, 10 a.m. Sept. 11, Fire Station, 120 E. Prairie St., Marengo. The Marengo Fire/Rescue will host a dedication 9/11 memorial to remember and honor the lives lost in the attacks of 9/11. Open to the public. Information: 815-568-3262.

10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY CEREMONY, noon Sept. 11, James C. Dhamer Town Square in downtown Huntley. To honor those who lost their lives during this tragic day in U.S. history. Information: Barb, 847-515-5262 or bread@huntley.il.us.

10-YEAR REMEMBRANCE SERVICE, 10 a.m. Sept. 11, Stade's Farm & Market, 3709 W. Miller Road, McHenry. Patriotic medley and group singing. Special presentation of the Star Spangled Banner. Live music and inspirational message. Free cider doughnuts and coffee will be served. Information: 847-540-5024 or www.stadesfarmandmarket.com.

"A SALUTE TO PATRIOTISM", 6:30 p.m. Sept. 11, Hampshire Fire Station, 202 Washington Ave., Hampshire. Join us at the fire station for an evening of celebration, remembrance, and a salute to patriotism. The silent parade steps off at 6:30 p.m. on Terwilliger Avenue. Once the parade passes there will be a 7:30 p.m. program at the fire station with a memorial service, music, open house and more. Information: Chief Kramer, 847-683-2629 or ckramer@hampshirefire.org.

"A WAKE-UP CALL" – LIVE SIMULCAST, 6 p.m. Sept. 11, Morning Star Church, 41W350 Powers Road (one-mile north of Interstate 90 Route 47 exit), Huntley. Live webcast event with messages by Anne Graham Lotz and Joel Rosenberg together with authentic worship led by Selah. Free. Information: 847-669-9800, Ext. 111 or www.morningstarwoc.org.

AN EVENING OF PRAYER & REMEMBRANCE, 6 to 7 p.m. Sept. 11, Spring Grove Bible Fellowship, 7664 Wilmot Road, Spring Grove. To honor those who gave their lives, those who continue to give their lives and focus on the One who gives us hope in seemingly hopeless circumstances. Information: 815-675-0041.

ELGIN CHORAL UNION, 3:30 p.m. Sept. 11, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. "A Concert of Remembrance" tenth anniversary commemorative concert. Tickets: $25-$50 at 847-931-5900 or www.hemmens.org.

MEMORIAL SERVICE, 4 p.m. Sept. 11, St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, 111 S. Hubbard St. (Route 62 and the Fox River), Algonquin. St. Margaret Mary Knights of Columbus Council 11091 invites all to attend a special 10th anniversary memorial service. Let us all get together to honor those who so courageously gave their lives that we may enjoy freedom. Information: 847-658-7625.

MEMORIAL SERVICE, 6:30 p.m. Sept. 11, St. Paul's United Church of Christ, 485 Woodstock St., Crystal Lake. Special service to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the attacks on American on Sept. 11, 2001. Everyone in the community is invited to the service of remembrance and healing. Information: 815-459-5096.

NEW TRADITION CONCERT, 2 p.m. Sept. 11, Sheely Center for the Performing Arts, 2300 Sherman Road, Northbrook. Concert will feature music from "Les Miserables," "Guys and Dolls," "West Side Story," "George M. Cohan Tonight," as well as other patriotic music for the 10th anniversary of 9/11. Doors open 1:30 p.m. Tickets: $12 adults in advance ($14 at the door); $8 students at 847-515-7650 or www.sccah.com; 800-746-9246 or www.newtradition.org.

NEW YORK CITY FIREFIGHTER PRESENTATION, 10:30 a.m. Sept. 25, Maranatha Assembly of God, 2505 N. Ringwood Road, McHenry. Victor Fiorella, a New York City firefighter for 22 years, will make an appearance. He was about 250 feet away when the first tower fell. Come and listen to Victor's experience of what happened to him on that day and what has occurred since. Lunch provided. Information: 815-344-0557.

PATRIOTS' DAY PARADE, noon, Sept. 11, steps off at Main Street and Lincoln Avenue, Carpentersville. To remember the 10-year anniversary of the 9/11 tragedy and honor those who were lost. Parade proceeds east to Wisconsin, turns right to Spring Street, to Lord Street then North to Maple to Carpenter Park. Information: 847-426-3439 or www.vil.carpentersville.il.us.

ROCKIN' FOR HONOR FLIGHT, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sept. 11, Woodstock Harley-Davidson, 2050 S. Eastwood Drive, Woodstock. Welcome home eight World War II veterans from their trip back from Washington, D.C. Food, vendors and more. Live music by The Screamin End at 11:30 a.m., Blonde on Board at 3 p.m., and featured performance by Grand Funk Railroad at 6 p.m. Rain or shine. Gates open 11 a.m. Tickets: $30 a person available at Woodstock Harley-Davidson and most Fifth Third Banks or visit: www.ticketweb.com. Information: 847-875-0159.

SEPTEMBER 11 CEREMONY, 9 a.m. Sept. 11, Veterans Memorial Park, 3400 Pearl St., McHenry. The public is invited to join the City of McHenry as they honor the people that lost their lives as well as those that put their lives on the line to protect us. A moment of silence will be observed at 9:05 a.m. marking the time when the South Tower collapsed. The City of McHenry Honor Guard will raise a flag that flew over Firehouse Engine 10 Ladder 10 located across the street from where Tower 2 of the World Trade Center stood. The flag was donated to the city by local businessman Mark Justen. Information: 815-363-2100.

SPECIAL COMMUNITY WORSHIP SERVICE, 10:30 a.m. Sept. 11, Hebron United Methodist Church, 9811 Main St., Hebron. The choir will perform two anthems for those who died that day will be remembered and police, rescue and firefighters will be honored as well as the survivors of the tragedy. Candles of remembrance and hope will be lit. Information: 815-648-2512 or www.hebronumc.org.

SPECIAL WORSHIP SERVICE, 10 a.m. Sept. 11, Congregational Church of Algonquin, 109 Washington St., Algonquin. Service will include a memorial in song for the ten-year anniversary of the tragedy and kick-off the start of the church's fall programs. At the end of the service the congregation will go outside and send prayers in the form of bubbles and return for a pulled-pork luncheon. All are welcome to attend. Information: 847-658-5308 or www.algonquinucc.org.

SPECIAL WORSHIP SERVICES, 9 and 10:45 a.m. Sept. 11, First Congregational Church, 461 Pierson St., Crystal Lake. Services will honor the 10th anniversary of 9/11. The Rev. Budd Friend-Jones will bring the message. During each worship service a special children's worship time will take place in the Children's Worship Center. Nursery care for infants and toddlers will be available during each service. Information: 815-459-6010.

Join Matrix, Shear Attitude and friends as we pay tribute to the area’s fallen heros and raise money for a public safety memorial in memory of Corey Shaw.

Fun events will be held throughout the day as well as a Cut-A-Thon Fundraiser at the Fire Station! Don’t miss Matrix’s own Jo & Sam as they Spread the Love.

Event Details: Tuesday, July 26th, 2011

Time: 1pm to 8pm

Starting Location: 14 N Main, Pinckneyville, IL 62274  

For more information call

Sarah at Shear Attitude Salon 618-357-6900 

OR 

Matrix’s Christina Fisher at 618-318-6683

You can RSVP for the event HERE: Spread the Love RSVP

You can download the PDF Flyer HERE: Spead the Love Flyer

 Donations can also be mailed to Fallen Heros Fundraiser, PO Box 172, Pinckneyville, IL 62274

Effective July 22, 2010 it became illegal in Illinois to sell or distribute for retail novelty cigarette lighters (The Retail Sale and Distribution of Novelty Lighters Prohibition Act (720 ILCS 668). We seek your assistance in protecting children from the harm that these lighters may cause as children are attracted to the visual effects, flashing lights, musical sounds, and toy-like designs of these lighters.

A novelty lighter means “a mechanical or electrical device typically used for lighting cigarettes, cigars, or pipes that is designed to resemble a cartoon character, toy, gun, watch, musical instrument, vehicle, animal, food or beverage, or similar articles, or that plays musical notes, or has flashing lights, or has other entertaining features. A novelty lighter may operate on any fuel, including butane, isobutane, or liquid fuel.”

The prohibition does not apply to:

1. Standard disposable and refillable lighters that are printed or decorated with logos, labels, decals, or artwork, or heat-shrinkable sleeves;
2. The transportation of novelty lighters through this State; or
3. The storage of novelty lighters in a warehouse or distribution center in this State for distribution outside the State of Illinois.

The Act may be enforced by any county or municipal law enforcement officer, or by any code enforcement officer of a municipality or fire protection district. Failure to comply with the Act is a petty offense, for which a fine not to exceed $500 for each offense and each day the offense is not corrected may be imposed.

You may review the law at: http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/publicacts/fulltext.asp?Name=096-1174&GA=96

Related articles

• Majority of Europeans 'Worried by Dangerous Lighters' (multivu.prnewswire.com)

12 female firefighters are competing to be the cover girl for a charity calendar in New Zealand that benefits The Child Cancer Foundation. Check out the story here: http://www.firerescue1.com/fundraising/articles/1042108-Firefighter-calendar-girls-compete-for-votes-in-New-Zealand/

And vote for your favorite girl here: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.224220684260450.79991.145372118811974

It's a great cause and we're sure they'd love your support!

Fallen Axes Run

Hosted by the Ride for Boo/Brian Carey Memorial Fund, Inc.

Homewood, IL – April  2010 — Ride for Boo/The Brian Carey Memorial Fund, Inc. was established to facilitate donations to charities and organizations, to aid firefighters and their families in times of great tragedy, and to fund a scholarship in Brian’s memory.

On Tuesday, March 30, 2010, shortly before 9:00 PM, the Homewood Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a structure fire at a single-family residence. First arriving fire crews found a house with visible smoke and flames, and were advised that at least one occupant remained inside the structure. Firefighters initiated rescue and suppression operations, yet, upon entering the structure, encountered heavy heat and fire conditions. Because of the extreme heat from this intense fire, and notwithstanding the crews’ valiant efforts, 87yr old Wendell H. Elias, could not be reached.

Leading the interior attack was 28yr old Homewood Firefighter/Paramedic Brian Colin Carey. In keeping with the longstanding traditions of the fire service, Brian willingly risked his life to save the life of a man he did not know. Sadly, this heroic act would become Firefighter/Paramedic Brian Colin Carey’s last alarm. During his unwavering effort, Brian was gravely injured. Crews both on-scene and at South Suburban Hospital, with great passion, worked feverishly to resuscitate Brian. Well into that night, with God’s blessing, Brian Colin Carey, a fiercely brave and kindhearted young man, peacefully passed away.

In 2010 the Ride for Boo/Brian Carey Memorial Fund, Inc. facilitated a ride to Colorado Springs, Colorado for the 2010 IAFF Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial Service, which was held on Saturday September 11, 2010. During this ceremony, Brian's name was added to the wall of firefighter comrades who have given the ultimate sacrifice and shall forever be remembered. 28 bikes and 5 cars participated in the ride to Colorado.  Through donations, merchandise sales, sponsorships, registration fees, and a pre-event party with silent auction items, over 30K was raised for the fund.  To date the fund has donated a set of structural firefighting turnout gear to a needy fire department and a $1000 donation to a terminally ill child.

Fallen Axes Run Details

The Ride for Boo/Brian Carey Memorial Fund, Inc., is pleased to announce the "Fallen Axes" ride. The ride will travel along historic ‘Old Route 66’ from Homewood, IL down to Springfield, IL, escorted by the Illinois State Police, to attend the Illinois State Medal of Valor and Fallen Firefighters Memorial service on 05/12/2011. 

At this event the following firefighters will be honored for giving the ultimate sacrifice.

• Firefighter Gary L. Cummins, Brocton Volunteer Fire Protection District
• Firefighter/EMT Corey Ankum, Chicago Fire Department
• Firefighter Edward J. Stringer, Chicago Fire Department
• Firefighter/Paramedic Christopher Wheatley, Chicago Fire Department
• Assistant Chief Thomas Innes, Hindsboro Fire Protection District
• Deputy Chief Mark Johnson, Hinsdale Fire Department
• Firefighter/Paramedic Brian Colin Carey, Homewood Fire Department
• Lieutenant Frank Fouts V, Kankakee Fire Department
• Firefighter Kurt Meusel, Scales-Mounds Fire Department

Event Details: Lunch/Dinner will follow arrival at each location

Wednesday, May 11^th beginning at 1100hrs

• Starting at: Homewood Fire Department, 17950 Dixie Highway, Homewood, IL
• Lunch with: Bloomington Firefighters at Station 6, 4040 E. Oakland Ave, Bloomington, IL
• Arriving at: Springfield Firefighters Lake Club, 940 W Lake Shore Drive, Springfield, IL

Thursday, May 12^th at 0900hrs

• Attend the 18th Annual Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service

Cost – Ride fee includes T-Shirt, lunch and dinner

• $30 per rider/vehicle
• $15 per passenger
• Non-Ride participants $10 PAY AT DOOR ~ t-shirt not included in this ticket but will be available for purchase at the event.

Event Registration: http://fallenaxesrun2011.eventzilla.net/

For more information the media can contact the event organizer:

Mike Bell            

Phone: 708-653-1394                    

email: rideforboo@gmail.com                                  

Website: rideforboo.org

TWMedia Group is a reality programming company looking for families that are fun, quirky and not afraid of the spotlight. Forgot those bougie "Real Housewives" they want to give the world a whole new show and we are seeking Firefighter Wives or girlfriends that would be interested.

Looking for:

• A group of friends willing to take this journey together.
• Perferably in Southern California area (Los Angeles  County).

To be considered:

• Email Tina Williams at twmediagroup@ymail.com
• Include in the email a little bit about  yourself and WHY they should consider you!

Never seen a "real housewives" episode?  Check out the various housewives shows on Bravo!

• The Real Housewives of New Jersey
• The Real Housewives of New York City
• The Real Housewives of Orange County
• The Real Housewives of Atlanta
• The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills
• The Real Housewives of DC
• The Real Housewives of Miami

Reposted with permission from Firefighters' Wives on April 11, 2011

We received an order for a Firefighters’ Wives long sleeve shirt and a Firefighters’ Daughters tshirt a couple of weeks ago from a lady named Heidi in Kalispell, Montana. When USPS didn’t deliver her order on time, she emailed us. She was initially wondering when she could expect her order, but after emailing back and forth, we discovered there was more to her story than just her wanting to get her shirts. She needed the shirts for something important, something that unfortunately many wives across the country are probably familiar with. Heidi needed the shirts for her and her daughter to wear because her husband’s department in Kalispell is dealing with cutbacks and she wanted to show her support for her husband and the department.

Heidi’s story touched our hearts and we thought there were other families out there that can probably relate to her story and give her some support. We decided to interview Heidi to give her the opportunity to tell her story. Below is her interview.

1. How many years have you been married? 12 years this summer
2. Do you have any kids? Yes, Peyton (boy) 9 and Ella 7
3. How many years has your husband been a Firefighter? 5 and a half years
4. What is his title in the department? Firefighter/Paramedic/Haz-Mat Tech
5. How many layoffs are you expecting? Up to 15, they just laid off 7 tonight
6. What are the reasons for the layoffs?
We’ve been dealing with contract negotiation for the last two years. Finally went to arbitration and the Firefighters won on all 14 points. Issues varied from clothing and the use of city property to the use of Kelly days and longevity pay. Once the arbitrator sided with us, the firefighters received notices of layoff within a few days. They played the public and basically have said that we were asking for and won raises in such poor economic times. They have no other choice. The city manager has thrown out a number that we are exceeding and we can’t match her numbers.

7. How is this news affecting you as a wife of a Firefighter?
I’m terrified. If my husband loses his job, we will need to move. I don’t mind moving but my kids are in 1st and 3rd grade. I made a pact with myself that I’d never uproot them. They would start and finish in the same school district with the same friends. I’m also terrified that if they layoff enough guys that my husband’s job safety becomes a factor. Not only will he be fired but the lack of people on scene makes for a dangerous situation.

8. How is this affecting your husband & the rest of the Firefighters?
For one, they are exhausted from the emotional roller coaster. One day it’s only 6 the next it’s 15. We finally get somewhere and they pull the rug out from under us. They’re frustrated and with good reason.

9. What is the support like in the city for the Firefighters?
In general we are supported by a large percentage of the citizens. No one wants to lose their emergency personnel. But they don’t understand what’s going on. The press doesn’t understand either which makes it that much more difficult.

10. What actions are you and your husband personally taking to combat this?
What happens to my husband at work comes home. I know when he’s had a save and when he’s lost a patient. I know when something goofy happened on shift and when he’s dishing or receiving crap. He takes his job seriously and he feels almost responsible.

I have the ability to work from home and have watched him day in and day out sitting in his chair working on the computer. On the phone, researching and completely under water with the amount of information he’s found. I decided that I could sit back and watch him try to save our “family” and his job or I could join the fight.

We’ve built the www.kalispellfirefighters.org website. I made a no layoff logo for the firefighters and made no layoff t-shirts. We’ve walked the streets talking directly with our neighbors. I’ve picked up flyers, I’ve baked cookies. I’ve continued to update and add info as the firefighters collect it. I wear my union t-shirt, and my Firefighters’ Wives shirt with pride and the kids love to wear their firefighter shirts. We also spoke at the City Council meeting.

11. What steps if any, are you taking to prepare for possible layoffs in your home?
Fortunately this is not Brian’s first career. He worked in Corporate America and was traveling. When our son was born he changed his career to Home Building which was what my family did at the time. We were living in Iowa and he started volunteering in the fire service. It was something he loved as a child and it completely changed his life. He went back to school for his Paramedic and then decided one day that he wanted to try for a job in Montana. He’s from Helena and this would be his last chance as the cutoff at the time was 35, he was 34 and a half.

Though his heart is with the fire service and he takes great pride in helping the residents of Kalispell, he’s cleaned up his resume and has started applying for jobs back in the corporate world. Our priority is to stay here but if our City Manager breaks apart the fire department and privatizes the ambulance there won’t be a job nor any support from our employers to give us job security. No one should live that way.

12. When will layoff decisions be made?
They layoffs began this evening. We just lost 7 guys. Three of them were a part of a SAFER Grant which we have also lost because of the layoffs.

13. What other options do you feel the city of Kalispell has to cut budgets besides cutting the Fire Department staff?
They could show us the actual numbers in which they are using for one. We have asked for the numbers numerous times without making any headway. We don’t agree with what they are saying and they act as though they don’t understand the contract because they are overstating the impacts of the new contract. As for cutbacks, it is a tough economy and we are all struggling to make ends meet. The city has mismanaged the taxpayer’s money and we are now paying the consequences.

Unfortunately we feel the city is using short term solutions that will only add to the long term problem. Unemployment is increasing and insurance rates are likely to increase. Attracting new businesses and residents into the city just became more difficult. Existing businesses that are struggling may go out of business if they cannot afford the impacts of increased insurance rates. Businesses and residents will realize an increase in life loss and property loss due to the decrease in public safety responders. My husband’s job is less safe because anyone who knows anything about firefighting, it’s much safer with greater numbers.

One thing I did want to say. When you think of a work environment, most people have colleagues or coworkers and even peers. They don’t have a family; they don’t call each other brother or sister. The fire department does call their coworkers brother and they are proud to call each other by that name. The sense of family is strong and it envelopes the wives and children. It is my duty to fill in where needed just like I would do for my own sister or mom or best friend.

And besides, if I pitch in, I get to spend that much more time with my husband

Please go to Heidi’s website and support the Kalispell Department. There is always strength in numbers and I’m sure there are others out there going through the same thing. Stick together and we shall over come.

www.kalispellfirefighters.org

Today, over 80 area public safety officials are attending the Autism Recognition Response & Risk Management Conference host by the Charlotte Police & Fire Academy.

Scroll Down For IMPORTANT Links

The rate of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has grown to one in every 110 births. Research shows that as emergency services personnel, your chances of encountering someone with autism has greatly increased. Special training has been developed in order to give you a better understanding of how to interact with children and adults who are affected by ASD. The NC Office of State Fire Marshal has partnered with the Autism Society of North Carolina and the Autism Research Institute to bring this training at a conference.

Some of the speakers at the conference will be:

Bill Cannata

Bill Cannata is a Captain with the Westwood MA. Fire Department. He is the Autism and Law Enforcement Education Coalition Coordinator (ALEC). The Autism and Law Enforcement Education Coalition, “provides training to First Responders so that they are able to recognize situations involving children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).”

“The ALEC program began in 2003 as a collaborative effort of the South Norfolk County Arc Family Autism Center and the Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office. ALEC training helps foster a deeper understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorders among public safety and law enforcement personnel. Training is available for Police Officers, Firefighters, EMTs, Paramedics and Hospital Emergency Room Personnel, using curriculum and videos specific to each group. Presenters are First Responders with direct knowledge of Autism Spectrum Disorders through a family member. Because of this personal knowledge, in addition to their specific professional background, they are able to answer questions on a wide range of possible situations. The goal of ALEC training is to provide additional tools for First Responders to use in assessing the risk of a situation.”

Dennis Debbaudt

“Dennis Debbaudt is the proud father of Brad, a young man who has autism. A professional investigator and law enforcement trainer, Dennis has authored or co-authored over 30 articles and books since 1993. He has presented at conferences sponsored by the Autism Society of America and its chapter organizations, Autism Network International, National Autism Association, Organization for Autism Research, and many additional conferences. He has trained with NYPD’s Emergency Services unit, is a cited Autism & Emergency Preparedness Subject Matter Resource at the Department of Homeland Security web site Lessons Learned Information Sharing, has consulted to ABC News 20/20 for a segment on autism and false confession, and is an adviser to the Autism Society of America.”

Kimberly S. Taylor

“Kimberly S. Taylor is very active in the community, particularly in raising awareness of autism. She is a national board member of the Autism Society of America and past chair of the Government Relations Committee. She is presently chair of the Safe and Sound Task Force of the Autism Society. She has been appointed by the speaker of the N.C. House of Representatives for three consecutive years to the N.C. Joint Legislative Committee on Autism and First Responders and travels throughout the country training first responders about recognition and response to individuals on the autism spectrum. She has been a recipient of the President’s Award from the Autism Society of North Carolina.”

As some of my followers know, I find Autism a worthy cause to be involved in. Autism presents with a variety of symptoms some of which could be associated with other issues. First responders should know what Autism patients look like to better treat them.

What is Autism?

Scroll Down For IMPORTANT Links

Autism falls under the umbrella of Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD), a category of neurological disorders characterized by “severe and pervasive impairment in several areas of development.” Autism is the most common of the Pervasive Developmental Disorders, affecting an estimated 1 in 100 births (Centers for Disease Control Prevention, 2007). Roughly translated, this means as many as 1.5 million Americans today are believed to have some form of autism. And this number is on the rise. Autism (or ASD) is a wide-spectrum disorder. This means that no two people with autism will have exactly the same symptoms. As well as experiencing varying combination of symptoms, some people will have mild symptoms while others will have severe ones.

How common is Autism?

Today, it is estimated that one in every 110 children is diagnosed with autism, making it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined. An estimated 1.5 million individuals in the U.S. and tens of millions worldwide are affected by autism. Government statistics suggest the prevalence rate of autism is increasing 10-17 percent annually. There is not established explanation for this increase, although improved diagnosis and environmental influences are two reasons often considered. Studies suggest boys are more likely than girls to develop autism and receive the diagnosis three to four times more frequently. Current estimates are that in the United States alone, one out of 70 boys is diagnosed with autism.

Information provided from Autism Speaks website

Autism 101 for EMS Practitioners:

• Individuals with autism cannot be identified by appearance. They look the same as anyone else. They’re identified by their behavior. Autism is a spectrum disorder. It presents differently in each individual. What works for one individual with autism may not work for another.
• 50% of individuals with autism are nonverbal throughout their life span another 20% may present as nonverbal when highly stressed.
• 30 – 40% of individuals with autism will develop epilepsy or some other seizure disorder during adolescence.
• Individuals with autism have a difficult time reading facial expressions. The Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale will NOT be an accurate measurement for pain.
• You may encounter Autism by one of its many other names such as, ASD -Autism Spectrum Disorder, Aspergers Syndrome, PDD- Pervasive Developmental Delay, PDD NOS- Pervasive Developmental Delay Not Otherwise Specified and of course Autism.
• Some individuals with autism do not have a normal range of sensations and may not feel the cold, heat, or pain in a typical manner. In fact they may fail to acknowledge pain in spite of significant pathology being present. They may show an unusual pain response that could include laughter, humming, singing and removing of clothing.
• Individuals with autism may engage in self stimulatory behavior such as hand flapping, finger flicking, eye blinking, string twirling, rocking, pacing, making repetitive noises or saying repetitive phrases that have no bearing on the topic of conversation. This behavior is calming to the individual, even if it doesn’t appear calming. They may repeat something you said or something they heard over and over and over again. This is called echolalia and can be calming to the individual. If these behaviors are NOT presenting as a danger to themselves or others it is in your best interest not to interfere with it. Allow THE BEHAVIORS to continue as long as the individual is safe and is safe to be around. Trying to stop the behaviors will increase anxiety and may cause the individual to act out aggressively
• Individuals with autism often have tactile sensory issues. Band-aids or other adhesive products could increase anxiety and aggression.
• When restraint is necessary, be aware that many individuals with autism have a poorly developed upper trunk area. Positional asphyxiation could occur if steps are not taken to prevent it: frequent change of position, not keeping them face down. Individuals with autism may continue to resist restraint.
  

EXAM TIPS

• Move slowly, performing exams distal to proximal. Explain what you plan to do in advance and as you do it.
• Explain where you are going and what they may see and who might be there. This may avert unnecessary anxiety and/or outbursts or aggressions from the patient. Individuals who appear not to understand may have better receptive language, which is not entirely evident.
• Speak simply; give plenty of time for an individual with autism to respond to questions. A 3 – 4 second delay is not uncommon. Repeat your question and wait again. Use a calm voice. Be aware that some autistic persons’ use of “yes” and “no” to answer questions may be random and misleading. Try inverting your questions to validate the patient’s response.
• Expect the unexpected. Children with autism may ingest something or get into something without their parents realizing it. Look for less obvious causality and inspect carefully for other injuries.
• If possible ask a caregiver what the functional level of the individual with autism is, then treat accordingly. Stickers, stuffed animals and such which are used to calm young children may be helpful even in older patients.
• If a caretaker is present, allowing the caretaker to ask the questions involved in an exam may increase the likelihood of getting information from the person.
• Allow a caretaker to ride with the patient if possible. This will reduce anxiety and make your job less difficult.
• Don’t presume a nonverbal child or adult who seems not to be listening, can’t understand.
• Individuals who present as nonverbal may be able to write or type responses. Provide paper and pen or laptop for the best chance of getting the information that is needed.
• Attempt to perform exams in a quiet spot if at all possible, depending on the severity of injury and safety of the scene. Demonstrating what the exam will consist of on another person first may help the person with autism have a visual knowledge of what your intentions are.
• Emphasize the comfort & reassurance repeatedly

OTHER HELPFUL INFORMATION AND IDEAS

Scroll Down For IMPORTANT Links

• When possible avoid use of sirens and flashing lights. Sound and light sensitivity is common in Autism.
• Alert Emergency Room (ER) personnel to upgrade triage for child or adult with autism even if injuries are relatively minor. Having the person wait for medical attention may cause avoidable disruptions in the ER. Expect the sensory stimulation of the ER room such as equipment, lighting, noises, aromas and commotion to cause a negative escalation of behavior. Upgrading triage will save valuable ER time and resources.
• If possible communicate with receiving hospitals before arrival. Request a quiet isolated area or room for the patient with autism.
• Some autistic persons will be terrified by restraint systems used in ambulance transfers. Ideally, explain and get consent from the patient or guardian before attempting to strap onto a KED or stretcher.
• An individual with autism may not respond to directives, and that can be because they don’t understand what’s being demanded of them, or even just because they’re scared– the fact that they’re scared is the only thing they will be aware of — they may not be able to process language or understand a directive when fearful.
• They may fixate on or stare at an object in the room (or on your body — a badge, earrings, buttons…)
• Whenever possible, avoid touching these individuals. Some, but not all, individuals with autism will become more agitated and possibly aggressive when touched. Tell them what you are going to do.
• Identification can often be found on individuals with autism by a Medic Alert Bracelet or necklace used in a different way. Some families may thread the ID into a shoelace, into a belt, or as a zipper pull. A business card with personal information may be in a pocket or wallet.
  

Compiled by Susan F. Rzucidlo with the help of professionals and families across the nation.

If you are compelled to support financially you can make a donation HERE. This link will take you to the donation page for the 2011 Walk Now for Autism Speaks. “Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Bob and Suzanne Wright, grandparents of a child with autism. Since then, Autism Speaks has grown into the nation’s largest autism science and advocacy organization, dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. We are proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish and look forward to continued successes in the years ahead.”

More information from the Autism Safety Project…

In response to an emergency, EMS workers are often the first people at the scene. As they attend to the person or people involved in the crisis, they may not be aware that the individual has an autism spectrum disorder. If this is the case, the EMS worker will need to respond in a different way, while providing the quickest and most efficient care possible. Sometimes the ability of these EMS workers to respond in an effective timely manner will save the individual’s life. Since individuals with autism spectrum disorders may respond differently to certain stimuli and medical examinations, it is crucial for EMS workers to be able to recognize certain signs that may indicate the individual is on the spectrum and alter their method of treatment accordingly.

Resources for EMS

• Autism Alliance for Local Emergency Responder Training – www.AutismAlert.org
• Avoiding Unfortunate Situations – policeandautism.cjb.net
• Select Autism Merchandise – www.SelectAutismMerchandise.com
• The Law Enforcement Awareness Network – www.leanonus.org
• The Autism and Law Enforcement Education Coalition – www.sncarc.org/alec.htm
• Autism Risk and Safety Management – www.autismriskmanagement.com
• Community and Law Enforcement Aware Response – www.clearscv.org
• Project Lifesaver – www.projectlifesaver.org
• Autism 101 for Fire and Rescue – www.autismlink.com/pages/emergency_firerescue
• Caretrak Systems – www.caretrak.com
• Autism Society of America – Information for Paramedics and Emergency Room Staff (PDF)
• Autism 101 for EMS – www.autismlink.com/pages/emergency_ems
• Disaster Prep – (PDF)
• ALEC Brochure – (PDF)
• Seeing an Invisible Disability: Autism Spectrum Disorder Awareness - (PDF)
• Fire Prevention Criteria on which to base an Autism Protection Program – (PDF)