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In the News
Organization: Champaign Residential Services, Inc.
For more information: Linda Anderson Smith Lsmith@crsi-oh.com
May 29, 2003
RE: Fire Safety Video Production
Urbana: A new fire safety training video is scheduled for production on June 16 in Urbana (weather permitting). The video is sponsored by Champaign Residential Services, Inc. in cooperation with the Ohio Department of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities (ODMRDD), the Ohio Department of Commerce/Division of the State Fire Marshal, the American Red Cross and the Urbana City Fire Department.
During production, a fire simulation and evacuation will be filmed at 334 Scioto Street using equipment and personnel provided by the Urbana Fire Department. A portion of the street will be re-routed or down to one lane during filming.
"The video will become a comprehensive training video that educates both the consumer and the caregiver on the importance of practicing and promoting good fire safety skills within group home settings," says Mark Schlater, chief operating officer for CRSI and Fire Safety Committee member. "It is being developed specifically for consumers and new and existing employees of all residential facilities both licensed and unlicensed. Also, we will have the capability to market it outside of Ohio and to nursing homes as well".
According to Schlater, current fire safety videos used statewide were produced in the 1980's and are less than effective today. "Our intent is to produce a video that meets all standards and requirements as well as have an impact and hold the interest of viewers."
In Ohio there are 4,348 facilities serving over 18,000 MR/DD people. Homes for mentally or physically challenged individuals are particularly vulnerable because of the special needs of the people who live in them. The video will verbally and visually demonstrate the importance of being aware of the power of fire and what precautions need to be taken to successfully evacuate from their homes.
The video will also target the important role employees play in fire prevention and fire safety with the MR/DD population. It will provide education and training on the fire and safety outline set forth by the State, licensure requirements, involvement in performing drills and the on-going training of consumers.
Production is being handled by Mills James Productions out of Columbus.
"Given that there is an on-going need that has been demonstrated over the past twenty years, what better way for Champaign Residential Services, Inc. to take the lead in valuing the lives of people with disabilities in Ohio and across the nation by supporting the production of this very important video," says Schlater.
