LAWRENCE CO.— Emergency Management Director Valerie Luchauer addressed the county commissioners on Tuesday morning, emphasizing the importance of safety measures for residents. She urged community members to sign up for Smart911 and install reflective address signs on their homes to enhance emergency response efficiency.
“Having a visible address is essential when you call for assistance from police, fire, and ambulance services,” Luchauer stated. “Without reflective addresses, it becomes challenging for first responders to locate your home quickly, especially in the dark, especially if there is more than one home on a rural lane.
Luchauer highlighted that Smart911 equips residents to prepare for emergencies by providing vital information to public safety personnel. This service enables better communication during crises and keeps residents informed about weather, traffic, and other emergencies within Lawrence County.
The Smart911 service is free for all residents and can be accessed through its website or mobile app. The initiative aims to save critical time during emergency responses, potentially making a life-or-death difference.
Residents can create a safety profile on Smart911 that includes essential information about their household. “The profile can encompass details about all family members, phone numbers, addresses—both home and work—as well as medical conditions, medications, vehicles, pets, and emergency contacts,” Luchauer explained. This comprehensive information allows dispatchers to access vital details when a resident calls 911, enhancing the effectiveness of emergency responses.
The security of the information shared through Smart911 is paramount. The data is accessible only to dispatchers in emergencies and is protected on user devices with a PIN code, ensuring that only authorized users can view or modify their information.
Luchauer provided examples of how this service can be particularly beneficial. For instance, residents with a history of domestic violence can flag their calls as potentially sensitive, allowing dispatchers to prepare accordingly. Additionally, residents with sensory issues can inform dispatch about their needs, helping to prevent misunderstandings upon the responders’ arrival.
Reflective address signs are available at local volunteer fire departments for $20 or less. Luchauer assured firefighters are ready to assist disabled or elderly residents in placing these signs if needed.
“This program is all about ensuring the safety and well-being of our community,” Luchauer concluded, encouraging residents to take advantage of these valuable resources.
