New participants can register online to indicate they require an atypical response when interacting with a first responder.
A distinctive notification advises dispatchers within the computer system that a S.A.F.E.R. member is involved in the emergency call or at the residence.
Emergency first responders are notified of the individual need before arrival and respond accordingly.
S.A.F.E.R. is a voluntary special needs registry established to aid first responders when engaging with persons of various physical, intellectual, or developmental abilities. Personal information will be shared with the first responder when a potential interaction occurs.
Participation in the S.A.F.E.R. program will assist in producing a more positive interaction between the special needs community and first responders such as the dispatchers, police officers, firefighters, and paramedics while yielding an overall S.A.F.E.R. environment for all parties involved.
The following are examples of conditions that qualify for the registry
When an emergency call is received for the address of a registered S.A.F.E.R. member, the dispatcher, serving as the first point of contact, is immediately notified by the computer system that a member resides at this location. At which time, the dispatcher advises their responding units, fire, police, or medical, of the individual’s specific needs. Before arriving on the scene, the first responders would be made aware (for example) a resident at this location has a severe sensitivity to lights and sirens. By having this prior knowledge, the first responder can prevent an adverse reaction before arriving by not utilizing the very thing that could trigger the S.A.F.E.R. member.
Each registrant will receive two window decals of the S.A.F.E.R. logo that can be placed on the front entrance of the member’s residence and or on the window of any vehicle they regularly occupy. The presence of the S.A.F.E.R. decal signifies someone in the residence/vehicle has a unique need and is a member of the S.A.F.E.R. program. Upon viewing the decal, first responders would immediately identify the residence or vehicle as having a S.A.F.E.R. occupant and retrieve the member’s information to assist during this call for service. The use of the decals is voluntary by each member.
We are creating a more profound understanding for those with unique needs and communication types while providing crucial information to first responders with details such as these.
Details about the participant such as communication method, calming techniques, location of bedroom in the event of an evacuation, a photo if the member is missing, and any other vital information that could assist in bringing each interaction to a safe and successful conclusion for all involved.
Laura has been a 9-1-1 dispatcher in Alabama for 22 years. She was inspired to create the S.A.F.E.R. program after years of first-hand experience with family members diagnosed with various chronic conditions, mental illness, Down syndrome, and invisible illnesses. In addition to her personal experience, her professional interactions greatly influenced the development of the program.
Daniel worked alongside Laura as a 9-1-1 dispatcher and was instrumental in bringing the program to fruition in its earliest stages. He provided valuable guidance in identifying the organization's needs, selecting and implementing appropriate technology solutions, and helping train the team.
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Laura Ehrhart
(205) 282-9101
Laura@saferfirst.org