DAT Working with FEMA to Train Region II Personnel

The New York State Developmental Disabilities Planning Council (DDPC) has approved the third year of the grant Disability Awareness Training received with Niagara University in 2010. At this stage, we are finalizing the Train the trainer curriculum and working manual and will roll out training in the fall. Dave has been working with NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services in preparation of a statewide training per region for police officers who would be identified to train within their academies or departments. The Fire fighter training will roll out with the help of the NYS Office of Fire Prevention and Control. Dave completed the second of three phases with the state fire instructors at the State Fire Academy in Montour Falls, NY July 16. The third session is slated for October 15th. The EMS version will come out shortly thereafter. NU is also finalizing the resource manual that will allow for quick reference for first responders. Other areas that are close to completion are American Sign Language (ASL) signs that are specific to first responders. These, and other valuable information, such as the Registry for Interpreters of the Deaf, community resources, and service animal guidelines are also available on the site.

In other training avenues, Dave is working with FEMA to train its personnel in the Region II office in Manhattan. Region covers New York, New Jersey, Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. Training would be specific to disability awareness and response to individuals in emergency situations.

Dave did his second training for SIEMENS when he traveled to Atlanta July 25 to train staff. SIEMENS has taken a proactive posture to work with the disability community and hire individuals with disabilities.