South County Fire and the University of Washington’s BHCORE program are co-leading the state’s first behavioral health response training for fire and EMS personnel, according to a news release.
The inaugural training Friday was attended by members of nine fire departments across Washington.
The training, named “COAST: A Roadmap for Fire/EMS,” aims to equip first responders with enhanced skills for crisis response, improved understanding of behavioral health symptoms, effective strategies for opioid overdose and suicide calls, and knowledge of follow-up services.
The training addresses a growing need as fire departments take a more active role in addressing community behavioral health care gaps.
“For years, we have been responding to individuals in mental health crises without any formal behavioral health training,” said South County Fire Captain Nicole Picknell. “We are excited about this groundbreaking training that will be provided to all Fire & EMS agencies.”
The University of Washington’s School of Social Work leads BHCORE (Behavioral Health Crisis Outreach Response and Education), which focuses on supporting frontline workers who respond to behavioral health emergencies.
In addition to conducting training and research, the state-funded program awards grants to assist fire departments in better responding to individuals experiencing mental health or substance abuse emergencies.
“Fire and EMS respond to behavioral health emergencies in the community and saving lives due to drug overdoses. They’d like for these calls to run more smoothly. Right now, they don’t feel prepared,” said Jennifer Stuber, BHCORE director and a UW associate professor of social work. “We are seeking to change that with our training to navigate calls for service to individuals with behavioral health needs in Washington State.”
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