Rowan College At Burlington County Offers 'Calming Sirens' Event For Special Needs Population

Rowan College at Burlington County is hosting an event aimed at helping the special needs population become more familiar with emergency and support services. “Calming Sirens” takes place on Saturday, May 6, noon to 2 p.m. at the Mount Laurel campus. An array of police cars, fire trucks, ambulances and equipment from several municipalities will be on display in the college’s parking lot so that community members can have a hands-on, up-close-and-personal experience.

It offers those with special needs the chance to familiarize themselves with sirens in a non-threatening and understanding setting, according to the college.

Rowan College at Burlington County Criminal Justice Instructor Dr. Amber L. Ciccanti, who is also a former police officer and mother of a special needs son, is spearheading the event.

“I am in a unique position to see both sides and truly understand the need for this type of event,” Ciccanti said. “The special needs population reacts differently to emergency responders. They may run or hide and can be afraid of lights, sirens, and uniforms. This event will give them a 360 degree experience with public safety personnel before they need them in an emergency.”

“Calming Sirens will bring the Burlington County community together, increase awareness and potentially save many lives in the process,” Burlington County Freeholder Director Bruce Garganio said. “Creating these scenarios where our selfless public safety servants and community members with special needs can interact in a welcoming, educational, and compassionate environment will help proactively build trust and understanding.”

The college’s Office of Student Support and Disability Services, the Paramedic Science Program and other local organizations will be on hand to discuss available services and resources.

“RCBC is proud to host this important event and connect the underserved special needs population with life-saving responders and support,” Rowan College at Burlington County President Paul Drayton said. “We strive to create an inclusive and supportive community that allows all students to thrive. Partnering with first responders will help extend this culture in a way that will build positive relationships among children, emergency responders and the college.”

"The college’s Office of Student Support and Disability Services gives students the tools to strengthen their academic skills through adaptive technology, counseling, and academic accommodations,” Donna Kaklamanos, Office of Student Support Director, said. “Our office in particular works to provide programming that will support students and all members of the community in their ability to self-advocate and lead successful lives.”

The Burlington City Police Department, Willingboro Police Department, Burlington County Sheriff’s Department, and Willingboro and Westampton Fire Departments will also be on hand. Virtua, one of RCBC’s most visible Classroom to Career partners, is bringing its ASAP all-terrain vehicle that is used during special operations like parades, rescues in the pine barrens and sand dunes, and mass gatherings. The Peak Center for Autism, Beyond Balance, and We Rock the Spectrum gym in Mount Laurel will also be represented.

Rowan College at Burlington County is also providing a quiet room, located away from the event’s activities, for participants. Calming Sirens is free and open to the community. For more information about this event, contact Ciccanti at 856-222-9311, ext. 2710 or aciccanti@rcbc.edu.

Attached image provided by Rowan College at Burlington County.