Community Response System Initiative
Adopted at the in 2006
WHEREAS, the safety of our citizens, especially our children are at risk in the event of a crisis, whether it be natural, or man-made; and
WHEREAS, injuries are the number one killer of children and young adults in the United States; and
WHEREAS, the prompt provision of emergency medical care, both in and out of hospitals, can limit the consequences of injuries and mitigate disabilities, even death; and
WHEREAS, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2002 more than 160,000 people died from injuries and people experienced more than 28 million non-fatal injuries serious enough to require a visit to the emergency department. Injuries, including unintentional injuries, are the leading cause of death for people ages 1 to 44. Injury is the leading cause of years of potential life lost before age 65. Approximately one-third of all emergency department visits and 8% of all hospital stays result from injuries; and
WHEREAS, in the event of an emergency, there is a gap between the time of the emergency and the time for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to arrive on the scene; and
WHEREAS, citizens that are trained in emergency preparedness are equipped with the tools to render aid before EMS arrive, and
WHEREAS, local municipalities play an important role in protecting the safety and health of it's citizens,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that The United States Conference of Mayors urges Mayors to form a Community Response System Initiative or "CRSI" Committee; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that these committees will train individuals, including children (K-12), to be active bystanders, equipped with life supporting first aid skills to assist during emergencies; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that these committees will also raise important questions about needs related to preparedness yet to be addressed by cities and towns, and will seek out ways to make a difference, to help Mayors prepare their residents, and ultimately, to save lives.