PHILIPSBURG:--- The Windward Islands Emergency Medical Services (WIEMS) will join forces with the Philipsburg Jubilee Library at their weekly, story time at 11:00am on Saturday, May 17.
WIEMS an EMS (Emergency Medical Services) training organization geared to provide training in First Aid, CPR, EMR (First Responder), and any related pre-hospital care, recently held their 912 Awareness campaign exhibition at the library, with an art competition on May 6. The exhibit featured art work from elementary school students, who were assigned to draw or color an ambulance. St. Joseph student, Shanice James, age 8, won the drawing competition. James' drawing will be used to make vinyl magnets prominently displaying 912.
"The objective of this art competition was to bring 912 Awareness to all primary schools on St Maarten. Knowing what number to call in a medical emergency is very important. Even very small children can dial a simple emergency number like 912, to make sure the ambulance is sent on its way as soon as possible. But they must first learn how. As an avid reader, I think merging literacy with our 912 campaign is a great way to create more awareness," stated Joanna Rijnboutt, course coordinator for WIEMS.
Story time volunteer, Jamila Ruan, will be reading from one of the library's children's books called, "Ambulances", written by Kay Manolis, which gives a basic introduction to ambulances and the services they provide.
After story time, children will learn about WIEMS and how to perform CPR.
"Children and parents are welcome to join us for our weekly story time this Saturday. It will be very informative and interactive. We look forward to seeing you there", stated Joseanne Peters, story time coordinator.