First responders are, by their very definition, on the front lines of major events in communities that put civilians at risk, including floods, fights and drug overdoses. Across the nation, local municipalities have been striving to better position their first responders to both remain safe and provide better assistance to those in need. As the needs of local cities and neighborhoods begin to evolve for a range of reasons, the support given to first responders must also transform.
One of the more notable stories in the first responder arena across many states has been the use of a specific drug that helps to save individuals from opioid overdoses. Initiatives related to this chemical compound have spread to some of the states hardest-struck by the opioid epidemic, which has certainly been apparent in virtually every region throughout the past several years. First responder-related programs represent some of the first efforts to treat those suffering from addiction with care before thinking about the legal implications.
Positive results in Michigan
MLive recently reported that first responders in Jackson, Michigan, have been armed with naloxone, more commonly known by its brand name of Narcan, when responding to calls related to opioid overdoses. The source pointed out that this particular remedy has been incredibly effective in saving lives, as it regularly kicks the respiratory system back into functionality without virtually any lasting side effects.
It is worth noting that this has not been the most straightforward pursuit for states, as the opinions regarding opioid addicts and how they ought to be treated is often contested. However, first responders are being empowered with an important tool they need to oblige their core responsibility – the safety of civilians in need of immediate medical attention. According to MLive, the initiative has certainly helped out in many instances, but might not be enough to begin dramatically reducing heroin-related fatalities in the short or long term.
The news provider noted that first responders from the Jackson Fire Department have used naloxone in 27 separate instances since first beginning the program back in October. Because of the sheer speed of heroin addiction increases across the country, chances are more changes to first responder policies and strategies will sprout up in the coming years.
Weathering a storm in Ohio
The Columbus Dispatch reported that first responders have had to remain strong in the wake of one of the more extreme cases of violence the state has ever seen. In Pike County, eight people were killed in an execution-style fashion, sending shockwaves and fear throughout the area.
According to the source, first responders have been tasked with maintaining the peace, supporting the community, and handling the events.
"You see such carnage and nastiness that you can't ever put it out of your mind," former Logan County Sheriff Michael Henry told the news provider. "But eventually, you have to take that uniform off and just be a human, just feel. And that's tough to do. It's tough for everyone there right now."
First responders are making a big difference in the upper Midwest.