April Marks 9-1-1 Public Education Month and Telecommunicator’s Week!

April is a big month for 9-1-1. Not only do 9-1-1 educators have the opportunity to spread emergency services information all month long, but they also have the opportunity to show major appreciation to telecommunicators during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week  (April 10-16, 2016).

For those of you who do not know, telecommunicators, also known as call-takers or dispatchers, are individuals who work for an emergency service provider (usually 9-1-1) and are qualified to answer incoming emergency telephone calls and provide for the appropriate emergency response. They work incredibly hard each and every day answering tough calls in an effort to get the public whatever emergency service they need.  

In 1991, Congress recognized their efforts and created a week distinguishing who they are and the importance they play in our society. Then, in 2008, the House of Representatives passed a resolution to increase national awareness about the importance and appropriate use of 9-1-1. By creating a month dedicated to 9-1-1 education, Congress is able to encourage annual public awareness events, public advertising campaigns, target outreach activities and provide training for parents and teachers.

Below, we have compiled some important messages and current issues that the public should be more aware of so that they can get the most out of 9-1-1 services.

Call if You Can, Text if You Can’t: Many have the misconception that you can text 9-1-1 for help. We can do everything else through text, so why not contact 9-1-1 this way too? Unfortunately that is not the case. Luckily, many agencies are working hard to make this available across the United States. While more and more entities are incorporating text to 9-1-1, there is only still a small percentage of the country that has it available. If you see a sign or information in your region promoting that you can text to 9-1-1, then you can guarantee it is available. But if you do not, then please assume you can’t text to 9-1-1 and please call if you need help. Keep in mind that if you do text to 9-1-1 and it is NOT available in your area, you will receive a bounce back message instructing you to please call 9-1-1 for help.   

Know Your Location: Many people have smart phones these days. And on these smart phones we have maps that show us where we are, so it doesn’t seem farfetched to think that if we have GPS in our phone, then 9-1-1 should be able to find us when we call. This is actually not the case. When you call 9-1-1 from a cell phone/smart phone, dispatchers are only able to see approximately where you are and not specifically where you are located. Remember to always be aware and know your location. Look for mile markers, landmarks, cross streets and addresses on buildings. This information could potentially save your life or another life!

Stay Calm and Ready to Listen: When we call 9-1-1, it is usually for an emergency and this can be a stressful situation. But it is imperative that you try your best to stay calm and listen to the call-taker’s questions so that they can properly help you. A lot of people get confused when the call-taker is asking a lot of questions. They are panicking and want help right away. Trust us- the call-taker gets it and the reason they are asking questions is so that they can help you to the best of their ability. And help is usually always on the way already even while the call-taker is still asking questions.

As always, do not forget that 9-1-1 is for emergency use only and should never be abused or used for fun. It helps save lives and is an important tool in helping our society to get the aid they need. Call 9-1-1 when you or someone else’s life is in danger, or if there is a crime or fire occurring. We are here when you need us. For more information on 9-1-1 education, please visit www.csec.texas.gov.

 

January Brings Awareness to Human Trafficking

During the month of January, various local and national agencies will be bringing awareness to the horrible crime of human trafficking. In today’s world, there is still a form of slavery where women, men and children from around the world are being forced against their will to perform labor, domestic servitude or get involved in sex trade. People think if they don’t see it then it isn’t happening, but unfortunately, human trafficking is a very serious crime that happens all over the United States.

It is estimated that billions of dollars are profited from human trafficking. It is because of this modern day slavery that bringing awareness to human trafficking is so critical. It is also important that we give a voice to those who have suffered at the hands of human traffickers. Many times victims will not come forward for help because of language barriers as well as fear of the trafficker or even law enforcement.

These traffickers use many methods to lure their victims including force, fraud and coercion. Once they have their victims, they force them into labor or sexual exploitation. Traffickers usually prey on those who might have psychological or emotional vulnerability, economic hardships, and/or political instability. Victims usually suffer severe trauma and can sometimes be unable to identify themselves or are too scared to ask for help.  

The Department of Homeland Security is now in its fifth year of the Blue Campaign. This is a national effort to combat human trafficking as well as protect the basic rights of freedom while bringing those who abuse others to justice. For more information on the Blue Campaign please visit here: http://www.dhs.gov/blue-campaign.

What can you do to help?

Do not ever attempt to confront a suspected trafficker or alert a victim to your suspicions. This is for your safety and the safety of the victim. Please call 9-1-1 (in the event that it is an emergency) for help or contact local authorities. You can also contact these tip lines directly:

•Call 1-866-DHS-2-ICE (1-866-347-2423) to report suspicious criminal activity to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Tip Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year. The Tip Line is accessible outside the United States by calling 802-872-6199.

•Submit a tip at www.ice.gov/tips.  Highly trained specialists take reports from both the public and law enforcement agencies on more than 400 laws enforced by ICE HSI, including those related to human trafficking.

•To get help from the National Human Trafficking Resource Center (NHTRC), call 1-888-373-7888 or text HELP or INFO to BeFree (233733).

New Year’s Eve Safety 2016

This Thursday evening, thousands of people will embark upon an evening filled with laughter and fun as they prepare to ring in the 2016 New Year. While we hope everyone enjoys their celebrations, we would like to take a moment to remind those of the dangers of over-drinking and other safety precautions.

Did you know in 2011 the Texas Legislature passed the 911 Lifeline Law that states that a person under 21 won’t be charged by the police for possessing or consuming alcohol if the person calls 911 because someone might have alcohol poisoning? This is especially important for teens to know. As scary as a situation can be when someone is unresponsive, it is still extremely important that you call 9-1-1 for help. Remember that everyone’s life matters and to always do the right thing. For more information on this law, please visit here: http://www.awareawakealive.org/.

Here are some other great safety tips to ensure you and your loved ones safely ring in the New Year:

·         If you plan on drinking, please make sure you have a designated driver. Even if you have only had a couple drinks, it is never a good idea to drive. Practice safety first!

·         If you will be attending a party or an event where there will be a lot of people, never let your drink out of your sight. You never know if someone will tamper with your drink so keep it in your sight or in your hands at all times.

·         If you live in a city, then you most likely cannot use fireworks due to safety issues and hazards. Why not leave the fireworks to the professionals and go see a display put on in your local area?

·         Safety is always in numbers so whatever you decide to do, make sure you are not alone. Staying in groups will ensure you have a great evening!

·         If you have pets, bring them inside tonight because fireworks can be very frightening for them.

·         And of course, remember to have fun! And if you find yourself in an emergency, please do not hesitate to contact 9-1-1.

See Carson's Story Below

Practice Safety First Throughout the Holiday Season

It happens to be the most wonderful time of year! A time for giving, for remembering, and for truly cherishing your blessings. While this is a joyful time, it is also a time when predators prey on the unsuspecting. That’s why we want you to practice safety first!

Compiled below is a list of safety concerns that we hope you will take to heart. That way you can guarantee your holidays do not end negatively.

Holiday Shopping Safety

·         Keep all doors locked and windows closed when you are away from your vehicle. This will help prevent thieves from easy access to your valuables.

·         Never leave your car unoccupied while it is running. (And as a reminder, don’t leave children unattended in the car either for their safety too)

·         When leaving your vehicle, make sure all valuables are out of sight. If you have to leave something in your car, put it in the trunk.

·         Always remember to wear your seatbelt and practice cautious driving, especially if road conditions are bad.

·         Never drink and drive.

·         If you are involved in an accident, please do not hesitate to contact 9-1-1 for help.

Fire Safety

·         Keep candles, matches and lighters out of reach of children.

·         Never leave burning candles unattended.

·         Do not burn candles near flammable items.

·         Check and clean the chimney at least once a year.

Tree Safety

·         Decorate the tree with kids in mind; move ornaments that are breakable or have metal hooks toward the top of the tree.

·         Always use a proper step ladder when putting decorations up high.

·         When putting up lights, make sure there are no exposed wires, loose connections or broken sockets.

Poison Safety

·         Decorating the home with festive plants around this time of year is very popular. But some of these plants have berries that can be poisonous if enough are ingested. The most common are mistletoe berries, holly berries, poinsettias, and Jerusalem cherry.

Please keep these out of reach of children.

·         Did you know if you swallowed a button battery, it could potentially explode in your stomach? If swallowed and undetected, the batteries can do serious damage to the gastrointestinal system. Keep these batteries out of reach of children. And if a child does ingest it, call poison control at 1-800-222-1222 for immediate help.  

Travel Safety

·         Make sure all your doors and windows are locked in the home before leaving.

·         If you have an alarm, make sure to turn it on while you are out of town.

·         Have a neighbor or family member watch your house, pick up your mail and even park in your driveway periodically, if possible.

·         Leave a radio or television on so the house sounds occupied.

·         Make sure expensive items or gifts in your home are not visible through windows or doors.

·         If you have a Christmas tree, make sure it is placed in water or wet sand to keep it fresh.

Whether you travel this holiday season or stay at home, we hope you all have a safe and cheerful time. And remember, if you ever find yourself in an emergency situation, please do not hesitate to call 9-1-1 for help.
 

TxDOT has a new goal to #EndTheStreakTX of Daily Fatalities

Did you know that more than 50,000 people have been killed on Texas roadways over the past 15 years? According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), one fatality has occurred each and every day on state roadways since November 7, 2000. This is a scary statistic which is why TxDOT needs our help to end the streak of fatalities by focusing on driving safe and alert at all times.

TxDOT is hoping to raise awareness in the community so that the streak of roadway fatalities can stop. They are asking people to change their social media profile pictures to the black image available for download here. Throughout the month of November you can find out more information on this initiative by visiting TxDOT’s social media pages:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TxDOT

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TxDOT

Here are some helpful tips on how you can help end this streak! Safe driving doesn’t take much, so let’s all work on this together!

•Buckle seatbelt – all passengers need to be buckled.

•Never drink and drive – drunk driving kills; get a sober ride home.

•Pay attention – put your phone away and avoid distractions.

•Drive the speed limit – always follow speed limits and drive slower speeds when weather or conditions warrant.

And remember, if you ever find yourself in an emergency situation on the roadways, please do not hesitate to contact 9-1-1.

 

National Public Educator Forum Fifth Annual Conference another Success!

This summer, the fifth annual 9-1-1 NPEF Conference took place right outside of Denver in Golden, Colorado. With nearly 100 attendees representing 15 different states including Canada, this event was a testament to how valuable public education is to all who participated. Throughout the four-day event, attendees were able to gain insight on a variety of topics presented by peers within the public education industry.

Public educators learned about the Ripple Effect from Steve Harper and how strengthening the power of connections can change your life and impact others. They also learned about age group characteristics and the Five Step Process from Marsha Giesler. Giesler was a huge hit at the Illinois conference which is why she was brought back this year to help share even more of her amazing public education tips!

Other sessions included Text to 9-1-1, Mobile Learning Units and Cultivating Relationships with Elected Officials. Throughout the conference, attendees had many opportunities to network and share various public education ideas that ranged from those who had budgets to those who had no budgets at all.

Below are a few tips worth sharing from the conference:

·         “Skillful instructors: are prepared and practiced; use a variety of teaching methods; keep the audience involved.”  Marsha Giesler, Downers Grove FD

·         “Use college students as volunteers in your pub ed program – they normally require community service project credits to graduate.”   Ashley Klco, North Central College

·         “We live in a fast-paced world. Your message should be concise, relevant, include photos (if possible), and informational, or inspirational, or FUNNY!” Susan Rodriguez, City of Plano PSC

For more ideas, tips or information on what was presented at the NPEF Conference or for more information on next year’s conference in Frisco (Dallas), Texas, please go to: www.911npef.org.

NPEF attendees participating in the Think Outside the Box Session

NPEF staff hanging with Miss Jamie!

NPEF staff with the fabulous Cell Phone Sally!

Cell Phone Sally posing with opening speaker
Sheriff Jeff Shrader of Jefferson County 

Child Passenger Safety Week is September 13-19, 2015!

Did you know that car crashes are the leading cause of death in children ages one to 14 years old in the United States?  These deaths could be prevented by installing or utilizing car seats, booster seats and seat belts properly.

September 13th through the 19th is a week dedicated to reminding and teaching the public about the proper use of car seats and boosters. Roughly three out of four car seats are installed incorrectly, which becomes a huge safety risk. But by being vigilant, we can change that. When a car seat, booster and seatbelt are used properly, it can reduce the risk of significant injury in infants by 71% and toddlers by 54%!

Here are some car seat tips to follow:

•       Find a car seat that fits your child. You want the car seat to fit your child’s current size but also leave room for them to grow.
•       Not all car seats fit in all vehicles so make sure the car seat you purchase fits the vehicle you drive.
•      Read the manufacturer’s instructions on how to install the car seat and use it properly.
•     Children under the age of one should always ride rear-facing.
•      Children age 1-3 years should be kept rear-facing as long as they fit the car seat.
•     All children under the age of 12 should only sit in the back seat.

 Please take the time to make sure your children’s car seats are properly installed. In most towns and cities, you can find a trained technician that can ensure your seats are properly installed at no charge to you.  For more information on car seats and installing the right ones or how to find help obtaining a car seat, please visit http://www.safercar.gov/parents/CarSeats/Car-Seat-Safety.htm.