New emergency database to catalog, help
Published 12:44 pm Thursday, August 2, 2012
In an effort to help residents during times of need, St. Clair County is compiling a database in case of an emergency.
Residents who have special needs can now have their information—such as if they are in a wheelchair or require oxygen—on file for first responders.
St. Clair County Emergency Management Agency Director Ellen Haynes said winter weather causing power outages in an area or a tornado event can now be more effectively handled by by first responders, with them knowing who is in most need. “What your situation is has never been part of the 9-11 system,” she said.
“Some people just think we’re trying to keep it to people who really need help,” said Haynes, “But we really want to reach out to people who are really incapable of helping themselves.”
Referral forms have been sent to all municipalities in St. Clair County, and area available at each town hall.
They may also be downloaded from
www.stclairco.com/ema
Those who qualify include people who area deaf, blind, in a wheelchair, on oxygen, or any special need first responders could know to help people in emergency situations.
