Community Helpers and Safety
By: Amadee Staab

Bob Shubert from Ellis County EMS visited the HFE kindergarten classrooms on Monday, October 12, 2009.  This visit was part of the kindergarten unit on community helpers and safety.  Bob brought the ambulance and pieces of equipment that the paramedics use every day to show the students what to expect if they are ever faced with riding in an ambulance.  He demonstrated some of the techniques that are used when the ambulance is called to assist with accidents and illnesses.  He stressed to the students that nothing that the paramedics do will hurt, and that their goal is to help patients and keep them from getting hurt worse. 

Students were allowed to try out some of the equipment, including the blood pressure, heart and oxygen monitors.  One student from each class also experienced what it is like to be put in a neck brace and strapped to a backboard.  Students learned how important immobilization is.  Students tried on braces that paramedics use if they believe a patient has a broken bone.  Students finished up the presentation with a look at the inside of the ambulance.  They were able to see all of the storage areas inside the ambulance, as well as all of the safety features.

Last week, students learned about calling 911 with a visit from Debbie Cox from the Hays Police Department. She taught the children about when it is okay to call 911, and what information the students need to be prepared to give dispatchers.  Students will also get to play and learn about fire safety with a kit from the Hays Fire Department and a visit from the Ellis County Rural Fire Department next week.