Emergency responders to get training to help Ontarians with disabilities

Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services
& Ministry of Community and Social Services
News Release

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Emergency responders across the province will now have the specialized training they need to better serve people with disabilities.

A new online training course for Ontario’s emergency responders will provide them with easy and practical information to help them meet the needs of people with disabilities. This course, the first of its kind in Canada and one of the most comprehensive in North America, was developed in cooperation with dozens of organizations representing both emergency responders and people with disabilities.

While the course was designed primarily for emergency responders, it is available to family members who care for loved ones with disabilities and to anyone who would benefit from a better understanding of the barriers faced by Ontarians with disabilities.

Promoting safety and building awareness are part of the Open Ontario Plan to provide safe and accessible communities for Ontario families to live and learn.

QUOTES

“This new course provides emergency responders with the necessary knowledge and training to provide the best possible service to Ontarians who have a disability or special needs, especially in an emergency.”
— Jim Bradley, Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services

“On the United Nations’ designated International Day for Persons with Disabilities, we are ensuring that those brave Ontarians who help us in times of emergencies are better able to help those who need it the most. It also promotes awareness and a better understanding to all Ontarians of the challenges which others have to overcome each and every day.”
— Madeleine Meilleur, Minister of Community and Social Services

QUICK FACTS

 The course is available in both English and French as well as accessible formats.

 The course expands upon Ontario’s existing standard for accessible customer service.

 There are an estimated 1.5 million Ontarians with disabilities.

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