A group of first responders from throughout Indiana met at EMS headquarters in Indianapolis recently to learn about dealing with individuals who have special needs.
The training, known as ‘The Emily Talk’, was presented by paramedic Tom Felter Jr., whose daughter has down syndrome. He explained that such conditions can led individuals to not obey instructions, and it is important that responders recognize this.
Felter says he can discuss both sides of the issue, because he has experience with both sides. He has been in emergency services for over 20 years, spending time both as a police officer and a firefighter, and has been a paramedic for 19 years.
Helping him with his presentation was his daughter Emily. Felter asked her to go up to each person with an attendance sheet, although he did not really need to have people sign in. He does it so the attendees have experience interacting with a special needs person.
He makes the point that special needs people must be treated differently, and with patience. This often goes against the instinct of first responders, who are trained to move quickly and make fast decisions. Felter wants to educate them to make sure responders avoid any misunderstandings. Talks like this can be enhanced if presenters use flyer printing to create informational handouts for the day.
