Did you know that there is a group of hardworking Drexel University students, trained in emergency services and dedicated to providing quick response emergency medical care? In this issue, Drexel Public Safety spotlights Drexel EMS and its graduating seniors. Read on to learn about this team’s dedication to public service. Then, keep reading to learn how you can request a customized educational safety event as well as important summer travel safety tips.
GETTING TO KNOW DREXEL EMS, A STUDENT ORGANIZATION
Drexel University Emergency Medical Services (Drexel EMS) is a volunteer student organization that provides emergency medical care to Drexel’s University City Campus and the immediate community. This team is comprised of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), First Responders, and support staff; advised by members of the Drexel Department of Public Safety and the Drexel College of Medicine’s Division of Emergency Medical Services. Certified by the Pennsylvania Department of Health as a Quick Response Service (QRS), Drexel EMS currently consists of 50 emergency response-trained students. Within the past year, Drexel EMS provided a total of 5,722 hours of service and responded to 190 medical emergencies.
Drexel EMS frequently works overnight shifts on the University City Campus and provides standby emergency medical services for many University City Campus events, such as sporting events, concerts, ceremonies, open houses, accepted student days and occasional city-wide events like the Broad Street Run. If you are hosting an event and would like to have EMTs in attendance in case of a medical emergency, you can complete the request form on the Drexel EMS website. Please note this is different than enlisting security officers from Drexel Public Safety, whose attendance may be required at certain University events.
Drexel EMS works closely with Drexel Public Safety and Drexel Police. If the Drexel University Communications Center (215.895.2222) receives an emergency call, Drexel EMS may also be dispatched to the scene, where they will provide emergent and stabilizing medical aid, until a Philadelphia Fire Department Basic Life Support (BLS) unit arrives. Currently, Drexel EMS does not provide emergency transport services, but does supply the same level of care as any BLS unit.
This group of students is also dedicated to teaching the Drexel community about emergency services. Once a term, they host a Hands-Only CPR demonstration (without mouth-to-mouth breaths) at the dragon statue (33rd and Market streets), and host recurring CPR certification classes on Saturdays. Students, faculty and professional staff can learn more here or email courses@drexelems.org to inquire about upcoming courses. The next Hands-Only CPR demonstration event will be at the dragon statue on June 7, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
In recognition of their efforts, Drexel EMS recently received a Student Organization Award from Drexel’s Lindy Center for Civic Engagement, for promoting public service and social responsibility. To learn more about Drexel EMS student membership, visit Drexel's EMS's website or email recruitment@drexelems.org.
Recognizing Drexel EMS Graduating Seniors
Drexel’s Department of Public Safety is especially grateful for the dedicated work of Drexel EMS’s graduating seniors. Congratulations to Owen MacFawn, Maura O’Malley, Chris Oliveros, Jennifer Rios, Lauren Certo, Theodore Feldman and Ilana Granow, who have collectively provided over 3,720 hours of service with Drexel EMS and responded to approximately 290 on-campus medical emergencies throughout their time as Drexel students. Thank you for your service to the Drexel community and mentorship to rising Drexel EMS members!
COMMUNITY COMMITMENTS
Alcohol Trivia and Awareness
On April 30, Officers Tom Cirone and Kim McClay, members of the Drexel Police Community Relations Team, hosted an alcohol trivia event for the Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity. The fraternity initiated this request for an event centered on alcohol education. Additional information was provided on hazing prevention and the Responsible Dragon Amnesty Policy. This event provided a relaxed and fun environment for students to ask questions and speak openly with members of Drexel Police.
The Community Relations Team will work with you to customize an event related to specific safety issues that you wish to address. To request an event or presentation, please complete and submit this form.
Drexel Public Safety is always happy to participate in community events, whether it’s a charity tournament, race, parade, fraternity or sorority event — you name it. Looking for an extra team to join your fundraiser or activity? Please contact Linda Moran at lmm467@drexel.edu to see if DPS can participate.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Drexel EMS Hands-Only CPR Event
June 7, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Dragon statue (33rd and Market streets)
Members of Drexel EMS will be educating the Drexel community about the importance and fundamentals of Hands-Only CPR. Stop by and watch a demonstration.
Commencement — June 13 and 14
Drexel Commencement ceremonies are just around the corner. Drexel Public Safety wishes attendees well during this exciting time. Please review the commencement website for details regarding these events, including a list of items not permitted inside the event venues.
Register for the R.A.D. Self Defense Program
The summer R.A.D. series begins on July 8. Registration is required and you must attend all four weekday classes to complete the program. Visit the Drexel Public Safety website for the complete schedule and to register.
SUMMER TRAVEL SAFETY TIPS
For many, the summer months are a time to travel. Whether it is by plane, train or automobile, Drexel Public Safety encourages you to practice common sense and take the following precautions on your journey.
Airport Safety
- Walk with confidence, keep your head up and stay aware of your surroundings.
- Never leave your luggage unattended.
- Immediately report any suspicious activity including abandoned bags to airport security.
- Only use taxis and transportation services with official markings.
Driving Safety
- Plan your route in advance.
- Prior to your trip, have your car serviced, including your tires.
- Always lock your parked car and keep valuables out of sight.
- Keep a safety kit in your car that includes a flashlight with fresh batteries, flares, a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit.
General Safety
- Carry a minimum amount of cash.
- Store your travel tickets and identification in a secure location or an internal pocket.
- If traveling alone, tell a family member or friend your departure and return dates.
- Try to familiarize yourself with safety services surrounding your given location.
- Don’t forget to … enjoy your trip!
Emergency Numbers
215.895.2222 or 911
TTY: 215.571.4141
Walking Escorts
215.895.2222
To learn more about Drexel Public Safety visit drexel.edu/publicsafety.