HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE -- The Rotary Club of Hot Springs Village welcomed J.P. French as guest speaker during its Aug. 25 meeting.
French serves as the Arkansas state director of the Smart911 program, and he spoke about the lifesaving program, which is free to individuals, families and even public entities like houses of worship or retirement homes. Club members definitely left "smarter" than when they arrived.
Smart911 works closely with the HSV Police Department and LifeNet, allowing first responders to already be familiar with any specifics before arriving to a scene.
After users enter information into a free safety profile, the information appears on the dispatcher's screen as soon as a 911 emergency call is made. Data might include medical allergies, conditions like diabetes, emergency contacts, or even pets in the house in case of fire.
The Smart911 profile dramatically improves response time, both in a medical emergency and situations like home intrusion. In addition, photos can be uploaded in case a loved one goes missing, so the alert can go out even before first responders arrive to the family's home. Individuals can upload as much or as little information as they wish, and the information is available only to 911 responders.
The Smart911 program is especially good for people who do not have a landline, just a cellphone.
More information can be found at the website http://www.Smart911.com.
Membership in HSV Rotary Club is open to all, and guests are always welcome to attend weekly meetings, held at 7 a.m. Thursdays in the Fireside Dining Room of the Good Samaritan Society, 121 Cortez Road.
Local on 09/02/2016