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County Unveils Program Which Offers Emergency Service to Special Needs Residents

Monroe County Sheriff Patrick O'Flynn, Legislator Steve Tucciarello and County Executive Maggie Brooks.

Monroe County Sheriff Patrick O'Flynn, Legislator Steve Tucciarello and County Executive Maggie Brooks.

Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks and 911 Director John Merklinger announced that the County’s Emergency Communications Department has unveiled its Special People in Need 911 (SPIN 911) initiative. SPIN 911 is designed to enhance emergency services for Monroe County residents with special needs. SPIN 911 Program Manager John Cassin and 911 Operating Practices Board Members, Sheriff Patrick O’Flynn and Legislator Steve Tucciarello were also in attendance.

“Monroe County is proud to be one of two communities nationwide that participates in SPIN 911,” said Brooks. “This innovative program ensures enhanced options for first responders and emergency personnel so they can better assist our special needs citizens and keep them safe.”

Monroe County 911 partnered with several local service agencies to launch SPIN 911. Organizations provide the 911 Center with information about a person’s condition (i.e. emotional triggers, developmental age, etc.); which is entered into a secure database and kept confidential. Data is used on an as-needed basis and is only distributed to emergency responders to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.

Partnering agencies which are participating in SPIN 911 include:

  • The ARC of Monroe County
  • Continuing Developmental Services
  • DePaul, Inc.
  • ElderSource of the Catholic Family Center
  • Finger Lakes Developmental Disabilities Service Office
  • Lifespan
  • Monroe County Office for the Aging
  • Monroe County Office of Mental Health
  • Peer Place Networks

 
Monroe County is only the second community in the nation (Luzerne County, PA) which uses SPIN 911. The new initiative comes to no cost for Monroe County taxpayers because changes are made within the 911 Center’s existing software. Monroe County’s Office of Mental Health and Office for the Aging also take part in several programs for residents with special needs.
 

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