DPS gives CPR/First Aid training to Saipan Call-a-Ride attendants

The Department of Public Safety recently held a two-day CPR and First Aid re-certification and certification training for the attendants/drivers of the Saipan Call-a-Ride Transportation Services.

The training, held on June 3-4, 2004, ensures that the people who provide transportation services for persons with disabilities and the man’amko (elderly) have the skills necessary to provide immediate medical assistance when needed.

The Saipan Call-a-Ride service had been suspended by its operator, Pacific Development Inc., due to the lack of certified attendants, as required in its Operation and Management Manual. The operation was suspended since May 26, 2004 until June 6, 2004.

Concerned with the suspension, Mariano K. Camacho, CNMI Council on Developmental Disabilities chair and special advisor to the Commissioner of Public Safety, immediately took action and coordination for this badly needed training.

“I immediately requested the approval of Commissioner Edward C. Camacho to allow the Emergency Medical Services under the Division of Fire to provide and certify four of the new attendants,” according to Mariano K. Camacho. “I was concerned over this dilemma and had to react quickly to avoid this major disruption of services to our fellow citizens with disabilities who rely on the only accessible and available transportation.”

He related that many consumers called the Council, airing their concerns when a notice was sent out to all riders and disability related organizations about the service’s suspension.

Capt. John Pua of the EMS conducted the training. As a result, SCAR attendant Mariano Mangarero was re-certified, while Juan Acosta, Joseph Crisostimo, and Albert Rejano received new certifications. SCAR was back online since Sunday, June 6, 2004.

“I want to thank chairman Camacho for his quick reaction, the Commissioner of Public Safety, Mr. Edward C. Camacho, for his approval and Captain John Pua for his availability to provide immediate assistance and support,” said Thomas J. Camacho, executive director of CNMI CDD.

“Having available and accessible transportation for people with disabilities has changed people’s lives. With SCAR in operation, people with disabilities will continue to be independent and included in our community. Although the Council is a systems change agent for people with developmental disabilities, it had to ensure that such service continue without disruption. However, we are very thankful for PDI’s assistance and support in operating SCAR,” said the executive director.