Emergency responders can face unique challenges when attending to children
and adults who have special needs.
To ensure favorable outcomes, Horizon Health Emergency Medical Services
(EMS) offers a free service to Edgar and Clark County residents called
Hero Helper. The program helps emergency crews quickly identify whether
a home or vehicle emergency involves a person with special needs so they
can respond accordingly.
How does Hero Helper work?
Hero Helper offers three ways to ensure the safety of people with special
needs experiencing an emergency:
In the Home
Door or window decal – A Hero Helper decal is placed on a window or door (Horizon Health
EMS will help determine decal placement). The decal indicates that a person
with special needs is inside, and that a Hero Helper information packet
is attached to the refrigerator.
Information packet – The Hero Helper information packet includes important medical
information first responders should know in an emergency. The packet is
placed in a magnetic sleeve protector and attached to the refrigerator
for easy reference. (Complete form now)
In a Vehicle
Window decal – A Hero Helper decal is placed inside a vehicle window, alerting
first responders that a person with special needs is inside.
Seat belt cover – A Hero Helper seat belt cover identifies a person inside has special
needs. The seat belt cover has a pocket that holds Hero Helper paperwork.
911 Integration
Proper planning can help ensure a positive outcome should an emergency
occur. Families can complete an online form (link) to identify that someone
with special needs is in the home. This helps prepare crews to deliver
the fastest, most appropriate care prior to arriving on scene.
Horizon Health EMS will contact you with further details. They will deliver
all window decals and seat belt covers and assist with placing them in
the appropriate locations. For more information, email
HeroHelper@myhorizonhealth.org or call 217-466-4131.
