The City of Lawrence is gearing up to host the annual Community Safety Day, happening on August 24, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This family-friendly event will take place at Fire Station 40, located on E 59th Street. The public is cordially invited to this free event, which promises a range of demonstrations and interactive activities designed to enlighten residents about the latest first responder technology and best safety practices.
One of the key attractions will be the IU Health Mobile Stroke Unit — Indiana's sole unit of its type. According to a statement from the City of Lawrence’s announcement, research published in the Journal of American Medicine in 2021 found that patients with acute stroke symptoms treated by such units are significantly more likely to experience less disability after 90 days than those who receive typical EMS care. IU Health staff are set to not only demonstrate the life-saving capacities of this mobile unit but also to provide crucial information on stroke prevention and treatment.
Additionally, the PHI Air Medical Helicopter will showcase its services. With a 40-year history of medical transport excellence and the distinguished Vision Zero Aviation Safety Award under its belt, PHI exemplifies commitment to transporting critical patients safely. This demonstration is especially relevant following Lawrence Common Council’s adoption of the Vision Zero resolution, which aims to eliminate traffic fatalities.
Highlights of the event will include a live DJ and food trucks, along with booths from approximately 50 organizations varying from Big Brothers Big Sisters to local churches and financial institutions. Demonstrations of bike safety and LPD drone operations are slated for the morning hours. Following this, a PHI helicopter showcase will occur, and then Lawrence’s bravest will face off in a “suit up” challenge expected to put on display just how much equipment is required when they rush to answer an emergency call, as mentioned on the City of Lawrence's website.
The schedule also features a Taser demonstration, where Lawrence Police will to safely deploy the device on willing volunteers from the fire department. This takes place at 11:00 a.m., while the ladder rescue demonstration by the LFD will happen at 12:20 p.m. For those interested in the specifics of the schedule or looking for more information can find it detailed through the official City of Lawrence website announcement.
