Cambridge, NY – October 24, 2011 — The Cambridge Valley Rescue Squad (CVRS) will be participating in the Halloween activities occurring at Cambridge Central School Saturday evening, October 29th, beginning at 5:00 PM. Games, fliers, and treats will be available, and CVRS will be giving tours or an ambulance. Many events in the large gym will be geared toward younger children, including fun activities and information provided by CVRS to remind children and families about staying safe while trick-or-treating. Olive Sexton of the CVRS will be present to talk about the Junior Rescue Squad with any teens who are interested.
Tips for Trick-or-Treaters
CVRS would like to remind everyone that the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission, Center for Disease Control, and many other government and health-care agencies all issue warnings and guidelines for having a safe Halloween. They report that children are more likely to be hurt by a car, a fall, or their costume than by any malicious trick. Following the advice they give can help protect everyone’s safety and fun.
- Eat a good meal before going out and keep candy consumption reasonable. Many teachers report drastic changes in behaviors on the day after Halloween as students are affected by excessive sugar intake.
- Always stay with your group and have a trusted adult along. Do not go trick-or-treating alone. Older trick-or-treaters should also remain with a group and be sure parents know their route.
- Carry a light or use reflective tape on your costumes and bags so you can be seen well.
- Be sure your vision is not obstructed and your costume fits well to eliminate the possibility of tripping over it. All parts of your costume should be flame resistant.
- If you carry props such as a sword, cane, or stick, be sure they are short, soft, and flexible to avoid injury.
- Look carefully before crossing streets.
- Use sidewalks when going from house to house to avoid tripping on lawn ornaments or uneven surfaces.
- Examine all treats for choking hazards or tampering before eating them.
- Observe any curfews established by local authorities.
- Be sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1 if they have an emergency or become lost.
- Stay safe and have fun!
CVRS Junior Squad
The Junior Rescue Squad is open to anyone 12 years or older and may be especially appealing to youth interested in the medical field. Volunteers on the Junior Squad participate in trainings, learn the importance of HIPAA laws and confidentiality, and help at CVRS functions like the annual barbeque, Balloon Fest, and the bike races. They also visit the area 9-1-1 center where they can “get a feel for how the call center works,” according to Olive Sexton, one of the group’s advisors. They become very useful during EMT trainings by acting as patients during labs and role plays. At 14 the members can obtain CPR training and ride in an ambulance where they can provide valuable assistance to EMT’s. Membership in the Junior Squad requires maturity as well as 12 hours of participation each month and attendance at six meetings each year. Some youth put in more time and have found it is a rewarding way to earn community service credits for school courses.
Olive Sexton, an advisor to the Junior Squad, has remained involved as a special way of guiding young people. “Taking on a responsibility like this will help them,” she explains. “Some come in quiet and shy, but open up as years go on,” adds Tammi Gebo, advisor of the Junior Squad since its inception. Both recognize that the ages at which someone is eligible to join the Junior Squad are also ages that expose young people to a lot of negative temptations as well. “They’re our future, really,” says Tammi about the Junior Squad members. The Junior Squad has proven to be a positive outlet for many youngsters.
To join the Junior Rescue Squad, pick up an application at the CVRS Halloween events or at the CVRS building, or call Tammi Gebo at 677-5713.