Vital Signs Foundation Empowers the Deaf Community Through Health and Safety Trainings
In a pioneering initiative, the Vital Signs Foundation is bridging the communication gap by providing crucial first aid and safety training for the Deaf community.
Speaking on the Signs Breakfast show with host Alan Herbat, Kelvin Kyallo, a Deaf Health and Safety trainer from Vital Signs Foundation, through his sign language interpreter Aurelia Ngina, emphasized that this training is vital because, like anyone else, Deaf individuals face unexpected emergencies in the workplace.
Therefore, according to Kyallo, Vital Signs has taken a proactive approach by employing Deaf and Sign Language Interpreter professionals as trainers which ensure seamless communication during their sessions.
The company’s goal is to extend this life-saving knowledge to all 47 counties across the nation, conducting training in churches, schools, and workplaces.
When teaching first aid, the training focuses on common emergencies such as fainting, choking, and shock.
Kyallo explained that the first step in an emergency is a primary survey. This initial assessment involves checking the immediate surroundings for danger and evaluating the casualty's condition, including their heartbeat, body temperature, and any visible bleeding or other abnormalities.
Following the primary survey, a secondary survey follows, which involves a head-to-toe examination to check for bleeding points, fractures, or any other injuries. If the injuries aren't severe, the casualty is placed in a recovery position with their head tilted to ensure easy airflow.
Kyallo stressed the importance of introducing yourself as a first aider before providing assistance to avoid any legal complications.
He also highlighted that it's crucial to only offer aid if you are confident in your abilities.
Beyond first aid, Vital Signs also provides training on HIV and AIDS awareness in the workplace, focusing on prevention and fighting stigma.
The company tailors its training content based on the audience; for schools, the focus is on first aid and fire safety, while churches and companies with Deaf employees receive training on first aid, fire safety, and occupational health.
According to Kyallo, the feedback they've received indicates that many people lack basic knowledge of safety practices to apply during an accident.
Vital SignsFoundation aims to fill this gap by offering free and easy-to-understand training, with all participants receiving a certificate upon completion.
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Selestine Nyongesa
An editor at Signs Tv
Experienced and versatile writer, dedicated to using my exceptional writing and editing skills to inform and advocate. My work focuses on educating and entertaining readers on a range of topics, with a particular expertise in matters of disability.
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