Westlake Kiwanis donation helps provide safer child transport by Westlake EMS squads
The Westlake Kiwanis Club provided the Westlake Fire Department with four Pedi-Mate Child Restraint systems for the emergency squads.
Nationwide, EMS agencies transport approximately 16,000 children every day, according to Dan White of EMS1.com. Westlake Lt. Craig Dayton explained, “This system allows the Westlake EMTs a much improved method of securing small children during transport.”
The Pedi-Mate child restraint system manufactured by Ferno is designed for superior safety. Using a five-point harness, the Pedi-Mate attaches quickly and easily to most cots, securely holding a child up to 40 pounds. A fully adjusting harness system fits each child firmly and provides safe control during transport. The three restraint straps fasten quickly and easily to a stretcher while the quick-release buckles make removal equally convenient.
It is durable, but light-weight, and rolls up compactly allowing for efficient storage and retrieval. Former Kiwanis President Rick Grane was instrumental in securing the grant after learning of the need from the Westlake Fire Department. The Westlake Kiwanis Club was able to obtain the funds from the Ohio District Kiwanis Foundation which raises funds from Ohio Kiwanis Clubs and then provides grants for worthwhile projects.
The Westlake Club Family of the Key Club, Builders Club, and Aktion Club also raises local funds for needy community projects. The main source of funds is the pancake breakfasts held each spring and fall. During the holiday season the club provides funds to the Westlake Community Service Commission to help purchase food for Thanksgiving and Christmas baskets. Kiwanis Club members also volunteer to help pack the baskets for distribution.
The Westlake Kiwanis Club meets on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 p.m. at SB Eighty-one. If interested in learning more about the club and its activities, call 216-832-1640.
George Christ
I am coordinator of the West Cuyahoga Spirit of America Safe Boating Program. The program provides free boating education to 7th grade students. It is sponsored by the Bay Village Schools and The Spirit of America Foundation. A grant from ODNR -Watercraft helps fund the program. This is the 11th year this program has been in operation.