Public Education and Activities Planned to Observe Emergency Medical Services Week May 14-20, 2006

(Santa Ana) – In observance of Emergency Medical Services Week May 14-20, 2006, the County of Orange Health Care Agency and a coalition of Orange County emergency services and healthcare providers have come together to plan a month of public information and outreach activities. From low-cost CPR instruction on “Super CPR Sunday” to Drowning Prevention and Water Safety Awareness and Fire Safety Day, EMS Week activities focus on the many vital emergency services and trainings that are available throughout the County of Orange.

As part of the EMS Week celebration, Orange County residents can get free blood pressure checks at designated fire stations, hospitals and community locations throughout the county. Although high blood pressure often contributes to serious health problems, it can be present with no physical symptoms, so it is important to have regular blood pressure readings. For a complete list of dates and locations where free blood pressure screenings are being offered please visit www.ochealthinfo.com/emsweek/bp.htm.

While California law requires that children up to 6 years of age or 60 pounds ride in child safety seats, it is estimated that 95% of child safety seats are installed incorrectly. On Saturday, May 6 at 10:00 am a Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician will conduct a Child Passenger Safety Class at the St. Joseph Mother Baby Assessment Center, 363 S. Main Street, Orange. The discussion will cover the safest ways for children to ride in a vehicle, how to select a child safety seat and how to use and install child safety restraints correctly. On Monday, May 15 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm there will be a Child Safety Seat Inspection event in the Angel Stadium of Anaheim Parking Lot where Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians will inspect cars and provide training to parents. Both events are free, and reservations are required. To register for the Child Passenger Safety Class call (714) 744-8764. To make an appointment for a Child Safety Seat Inspection call (714) 532-8631.

EMS Week Festivities will conclude on Saturday, May 27 with a Tailgate Celebration at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. The celebration will begin at 4:30 pm and will feature live entertainment and free refreshments. Representatives from Orange County emergency services organizations will be present, and several fire engines, ambulances, and police cars will be on display.

For further information about EMS Week and a detailed listing of all events, visit the Orange County Health Care Agency’s EMS Week webpage at http://www.ochealthinfo.com/emsweek/events.htm.

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