Volunteer

Volunteer Training Page:

AWSF Volunteer Instructions-Training (Required Reading)

THANK YOU for volunteering ! We at AWSF believe that you’re not only going to help save a few lives and prevent injuries, but also going to have a rewarding and even fun time out in your community getting to know some wonderful people.

Just as for our folks who use wheelchairs, SAFETY is our first concern for you. In many instances, you’ll be out doing errands when you see someone using a wheelchair in a public area who may need a safety flag. PLEASE STAY SAFE by locating a legal place to park your car. Taking one of the flags with you, once you are both in a safe location (not in the street), slowly approach the individual, smiling, and begin a friendly conversation, such as:

“Excuse me sir/ma’am, do you have a moment ?   My name is ________ and I’m a trained volunteer for a non-profit organization called American Wheelchair Safety Flags. We understand that sometimes out here in public, some drivers don’t pay attention to road rules as they should, making it dangerous for you. Maybe you’ve already experienced a close-call with a vehicle. “

“If OK with you, I’d like to help make it safer for you by giving you a safety flag for free. (Showing them the flag), It’s retractable and has a clamp, making it easy to put on and take off your wheelchair.  With your permission, I’d like to work with you to place it in the best spot of your chair.” (Though it’s rare, there will be a small minority who just do not want the flag.)

Given permission, help the individual find a place on the frame of their chair, typically in the front, where they are able to raise and lower the flag at will (which is also NOT in the way of their normal functions)  Once you secure the clamp, allow them to practice lowering, raising and also removing and re-attaching the clamp (if they are able to do so).

Once done, please converse with the individual to learn more about them, specifically their “safety history.” Have they been hit by cars before ? … maybe “near-misses”?  After establishing trust, please request a photo of them (smiling : ) with their new flag. Explain to them that the non-profit needs a pic to be able to send more free flags to you/other volunteers. Most will agree, but it’s ok if they don’t feel comfortable with a photo.

In addition to requesting a photo, please record their names and their basic safety history for your “volunteer report.”

* Should anyone NOT want you to affix the flag to their chair, but want a flag, simply hand it to them, but please show them how it works.

Now get out there and make a difference !

** In some instances, you will develop a great rapport. In addition to requesting a photo, please ask if it would be OK to do a 30-second video with your iPhone. If they consent, please have them sign the “Media Consent Form” (in Forms Tab). Then ask them to “please introduce yourself and highlight your safety concerns/history with vehicles. Also, please describe how this safety flag may be able to help you”. As you know, testimonials play a critical role in marketing any cause.

• Place training video here:

NEW PAGE:

• Place AWSF VOLUNTEER CONSENT AND RELEASE AGREEMENT here in electronic form (see Word doc sent to you)….or in a “FORMS TAB”.

1. I, _________________________ agree to work for American Wheelchair Safety Flags (AWSF) as a volunteer providing free wheelchair safety flags to people who use wheelchairs in public spaces.

2.     As a volunteer, I understand that I control the dates and times when I do the work and that AWSF is not responsible for scheduling my volunteer work. I also understand that I will not be compensated for any time spent volunteering, nor am I entitled to benefits, including employment insurance benefits, upon the termination of this agreement or as a result of this service.

3.     I am aware that participation as a volunteer may require periods of walking, standing, bending over, and carrying up to 10 pounds and will require the exercise of reasonable care to avoid injury. I am voluntarily participating in this activity with knowledge of the hazards and potential dangers involved, and agree to accept any and all risks of personal injury and property damage.

4.     As consideration for volunteering for AWSF, I hereby agree that I, and my assignees, heirs, guardians, and legal representatives, will not make a claim against or sue AWSF or its officers, employees, or agents for injury or damage resulting from the negligence, whether active or passive, or other acts, however caused, by any of its officers, employees, agents, or contractors of AWSF as a result of my volunteering. I HEREBY RELEASE AND DISCHARGE AWSF AND ITS OFFICERS AND AGENTS FROM ALL ACTIONS, CLAIMS, OR DEMANDS THAT I, MY HEIRS, GUARDIANS, AND LEGAL REPRESENTATIVES NOW HAVE, OR MAY HAVE IN THE FUTURE, FOR INJURY OR DAMAGE OF ANY KIND RESULTING FROM MY PARTICIPATION IN THE ACTIVITIES.

5.     I UNDERSTAND THAT IF I AM INJURED IN THE COURSE OF THE PROJECT, I AM NOT COVERED BY AWSF’S WORKERS’ COMPENSATION PROGRAM. I authorize AWSF to seek emergency medical treatment on my behalf and at my expense in case of injury, accident, or illness to me arising from my involvement as a volunteer. I understand that I will be responsible for medical costs incurred by such accident, illness or injury.

6.     I understand that the retractable flags and clamps provided at no cost by AWSF are and remain the property of AWSF, and I agree to return remaining items to AWSF at the end of my volunteer service.

7.     I HAVE CAREFULLY READ THIS AGREEMENT AND FULLY UNDERSTAND ITS CONTENTS.
I AM AWARE THAT THIS IS A RELEASE OF ANY AND ALL AWSF LIABILITY, AND I SIGN IT OF MY OWN FREE WILL.

Volunteer Signature:

Printed Name

Date:

 AWSF Representative Signature:

Printed Name:

Date:

If volunteer is under 18 years of age, a parent or guardian must read and sign the following:

 This release, its significance, and assumption of risk have been explained to and are understood by the minor and me. I am ratifying it on his or her behalf, and it is in our best interest to do so.

Parent or Guardian Signature

Printed Name

 Date:

AWSF Volunteer Screening Information Page

While no US state law mandates criminal background checks for our volunteers distributing Safety Flags in public spaces, the Executive Director and Board of Directors feel we must have trust and confidencein those we allow to represent us.

At no cost to you, volunteer screening provides several benefits:

1.    Protects our clients; individuals who use wheelchairs

2.    Ensures community trust, and

3.    Upholds the reputation of AWSF

We fully understand the reluctance you may have with providing your sensitive information, and don’t blame you. With the increase in scammers, without due diligence, it would be reckless of you to do so. If this step precludes you from moving forward as a volunteer, we will certainly miss you.

For those who have faith in our process, AWSF has been extremely diligent in selecting THE MOST trustworthy, professional, third-party company available in the US that meets our volunteer needs, National Crime Search, LLC (NCS). Please know that we (AWSF) will NOT have access to any info you share with NCS. That sensitive info is strictly between you and them and will be protected behind their secure firewall; ONLY the results will be shared with us, and also with you, of course. Here’s pertinent information about NCS:

National Crime Search, LLC

(Click here for their official website: Affordable Background Checks Made Easy | NCS ) (not sure what’s going on below with all the “underlines” … don’t see a way to “undo” ??)

“NCS is a nationwide provider of secure, fast, compliant background screening solutions. We help growing businesses build safer, smarter teams through human-first service and customizable hiring solutions. Backed by over 50 years of combined industry expertise, with over 200,000 clients. We combine powerful technology with real human support to deliver peace of mind and a better background check experience. Our team is responsive, knowledgeable, and here to help—because behind every great hire or volunteer, there should be people who care.”

Services utilized for all volunteers of AWSF:

·         Social Security Number Trace (ensures your name is not confused with a similar one)

·         Multi-State Criminal Database Search

·         National Sex Offender Registry Search

·         US Terror Watchlist (OFAC) Search

·         County Criminal History*

Once you have completed the “request for information, you willl then “SUBMIT” to generate a basic law enforcement background check (that may take several days). Please see their FAQ tab on website to help answer your questions.

National Crime Search, LLC is Better Business Bureau (BBB) Accredited with an A+ Rating.  BBB has determined that National Crime Search, LLC meets BBB accreditation standards, which include a commitment to make a good faith effort to resolve any concerns and has an A+ Rating. See link for specific info below.

National Crime Search, LLC | BBB Business Profile | Better Business Bureau

Lastly, MS. Amber Black, our representative has offered her services anytime and has provided her contact info for any questions you may have.

Amber Black

National Crime Search, LLC.
Your Background Screening Partner
Schedule a call with me!

http://www.nationalcrimesearch.com
Phone: 479.695.2111 | Toll Free: 888.527.3282 | Fax:
800.571.6303
Send NCS a Secure Email

NCS’s Security Policy (Summary)

.

NCS takes any and all inquiries into our security policies and data security processes very seriously. NCS strives to protect personal information that we collect, maintain and disclose through the use of appropriate and reasonable administrative, physical, and technical safeguards. We have security protocols and measures in place to ensure confidentiality of PII and to protect the PII we maintain about you from unauthorized access or alteration as well as unlawful disclosure. These measures include internal and external firewalls, physical security and technological security measures, as well as encryption of certain information and password protection for account information. Our security program is designed to: 

(1) Ensure the security and confidentiality of personal information 

(2) Protect against any anticipated threats or hazards to the security or integrity of the information 

(3) Protect against unauthorized access, use, alteration, or unlawful disclosure of the information that could result in substantial harm or inconvenience to any individual. 

In the course of business, NCS may collect or ask that you disclose your Social Security Number. To the extent practicable, NCS protects the confidentiality of all information we collect, including Social Security Numbers. Accordingly, we prohibit the unlawful disclosure of personal information, including Social Security Numbers, and limit access to same. We dispose of such information by taking reasonable measures to protect against unauthorized access to or use of the information. Below further describes data safeguards we use: We limit access to personal information about you to employees who we believe reasonably need to come into contact with that information to provide products or services to you or in order to do their jobs. We have physical, electronic, and procedural safeguards that comply with federal regulations to protect personal information about you. Your NCS Account Information is password-protected. Your NCS Account is also protected by Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), utilizing email and SMS messages to send one-time use codes to verify your identity. When logged in to the NCS application, all information, including your login credentials, is transmitted across a Secure Socket Layer (SSL). All credit card information entered into the Website is not stored on a server maintained by NCS, but rather goes to our merchant services provider. By utilizing a merchant service provider, NCS is able to maintain PCI compliance and does not store or retain any credit card information on our servers. Should you have any questions or inquiries about our merchant service provider, please call or email us to speak with someone about those policies. NCS does store search results data from its providers when a search is processed. That data is encrypted on a server behind a firewall in a secure data center with a local provider.

* NCS recently successfully completed their SOC2 security evaluation.

SEPARATE PAGE - About the American Wheelchair Safety Flag:

American Wheelchair Safety Flags are designed to enhance visibility and safety for users of wheelchairs, featuring bright, fluorescent colors and durable materials suitable for both manual and motorized wheelchairs. Since there are very few Safety Flags made expressly for wheelchairs, particularly because each chair is so uniquely different, we have adapted a golf-cart flag. The Safety Flag has a telescopic pole that can be easily affixed to any wheelchair, allowing for easy adjustment, making it versatile for various heights. Its triangular shape and bright color enhance visibility, making it an essential accessory for safe navigation during outdoor activities and travel.

FEATURES:

- Typically 16 inches square and fluorescent on both sides, making them highly visible to motorists and pedestrians.
- Flexible telescopic design: adjustable from 8 inches to 4 feet, this flag adapts to various outdoor scenarios, also allowing for retraction when indoors.
- Durable lightweight construction: made from lightweight materials, this flag withstands harsh weather conditions.
- Wheelchair compatibility: designed for use with all wheelchairs, golf carts, and other mobility devicessuch as walkers, offering versatility for diverse user needs.
- Quick installation mechanism: features a setup and removal process, allowing users to easily attach or detach the flag as needed in different environments.
- High visibility reflective material: crafted with orange reflective material, it improves visibility in low-light conditions, reducing the risk of accidents, especially in public areas.
- Color: Multi
- Material: Stainless steel, PVC
- Size:29.00X21.00X0.10cm/11.40X8.25X0.0

Place 2 pics here of retracted and extended (I was unable)

SEPARATE PAGES/ SECTIONS - Please put this last (cutting/pasting sometimes does not work)

1.US Wheelchair/Vehicle Accident Data

Based on an analysis of U.S. accident data, wheelchair users face a significantly higher risk of injury and fatality in accidents compared to pedestrians.

‍ ‍Supporting Data: On average, about 30 people are killed by drivers annually in the US while sitting in their wheelchairs.Though stats are not verified, another 1,000 are hit and/or injured. Studies using data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and news reports provide insight into the dangers wheelchair users face on the road.

• Higher fatality risk: A 2015 study estimated that pedestrians using wheelchairs were 36% more likely to be killed in collisions with cars than non-wheelchair users between 2006 and 2012.

• Location: Almost half (47.5%) of fatal crashes occurred at intersections. In almost 4 out of 10 of these intersection crashes, there were no traffic control devices like stoplights or crosswalks.

• Driver behavior: In a Georgetown University study, drivers in fatal crashes with wheelchair users made no crash-avoidance maneuver (like braking or steering) in over 75% of cases. A primary cause of these crashes was drivers' failure to yield the right-of-way.

• Visibility issues: A key factor contributing to these accidents is a wheelchair user's lower profile, which can make them less visible to drivers.

‍ ‍

2. Common Myths

There are several common myths about wheelchair safety and visibility that can lead to unsafe practices. Misconceptions often arise from the assumption that a wheelchair user's experience is the same as a pedestrian's, or that standard safety measures are sufficient.

‍ ‍

Myth 1: Standard street visibility is enough

Myth: A wheelchair is as visible as a pedestrian or a bicycle and doesn't require additional safety measures.
Fact: Wheelchairs have a lower profile than a standing person or a bicycle, making them less visible, especially to drivers of larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs. This is particularly true in low-light conditions or when a chair is partially obscured by parked cars. Extra safety equipment, such as bright flags and lights, is often needed to compensate. 

‍

‍Myth 2: Reflective tape and flags are a substitute for lights

‍ Myth: Adding reflective tape or a safety flag is all you need for nighttime visibility.
Fact: Reflective tape is only effective when light is shining on it from a source like a car's headlights. It does not provide any active illumination. Lighted accessories, such as battery-powered LEDs, are crucial for making a wheelchair visible from a distance and from all directions, even when there is no direct light source. While flags are excellent for making a wheelchair more visible during the day, they have limited visibility at night without lights. 

‍ ‍

Myth 3: Sidewalks are always the safest option

‍ Myth: It is always safer to use the sidewalk than the street, regardless of the condition.
Fact: This is not always the case. Poorly maintained sidewalks with cracks, uneven pavement, or broken sections can pose a serious hazard for wheelchair users. In some areas, sidewalks may be nonexistent or have missing curb ramps, forcing users into the street. In these situations, it may be necessary to use the roadway for a short distance to avoid injury, making extra visibility measures vital. 

‍ ‍

Myth 4: Everyone can see me, so I don't need to make eye contact

‍ ‍Myth: If you are in a brightly colored vest or a well-lit wheelchair, drivers will always see you.
Fact: Drivers can be distracted or simply not paying attention. Even with a flag and lights, it's never a guarantee that you have been seen. The safest practice is to make eye contact with drivers, especially before crossing a road or entering traffic, to confirm that you are noticed.

‍ ‍

Myth 5: You don't need safety gear on familiar routes

‍ ‍Myth: Since you know your usual routes, you don't need to use safety accessories.
Fact: Hazards can appear unexpectedly on any route. A distracted driver, a newly parked car, or an obstruction on the sidewalk can create a dangerous situation, even on a familiar path. Using safety and visibility gear should be a consistent habit, not a circumstantial one. 

3. FOR DRIVERS -How can I become a better driver ??

‍ ‍Distracted Driving is Preventable: Help Create Safer Roads for Everyone

‍ ‍YouTube - NatlSafetyCouncil

‍ ‍https://youtu.be/KwR_D4TOZiE

‍ ‍4. FOR WHEELCHAIR USERS - How to Use a Wheelchair Safely

‍ ‍1. Familiarize Yourself with the Wheelchair

‍ Before using a wheelchair, take the time to read the user manual and get to know the device. Learn how the brakes, turning mechanisms, and safety features work; this will help you operate the wheelchair more effectively and confidently.

‍ ‍2. Apply Brakes When Transferring

‍ ‍When getting in or out of the wheelchair, always use the brakes to stay steady. This is especially important when transferring from a bed to a chair or vice versa. Applying the brakes stops the wheelchair from moving and reduces the risks of falls or injuries.

‍ ‍3. Clear the Pathway

‍ ‍Before you start moving, make sure the pathway ahead is clear of any obstacles. Remove loose items that could get stuck in the wheels and make the wheelchair unstable. Be cautious of uneven surfaces and avoid routes with excessive debris.

‍ ‍4. Maintain Proper Sitting Position

‍ ‍It’s important to sit properly in your wheelchair for comfort and safety. Make sure the seat cushion gives enough support and spreads pressure evenly to avoid discomfort and sores. Use belts or other tools to stay securely in place if needed. 

‍ ‍5. Check Wheelchair Brakes and Wheels

‍ ‍Regularly inspect your wheelchair brakes to ensure they’re in good working condition. Faulty brakes can lead to accidents and injuries. Check the wheels for any signs of damage, and make sure they’re well-lubricated and roll smoothly.

‍ ‍6. Listen to Your Body

‍ ‍Pay attention to any discomfort or pain while sitting in your wheelchair, evaluate the problem, and make necessary adjustments. This may involve repositioning yourself in your chair or using seat cushions or back supports.

‍ ‍7. Use Proper Weight Distribution

‍ ‍Proper weight distribution is the key to stability in a wheelchair. Don’t lean too much forward or backward, or you might tip over. Keep your weight in the middle of the chair and avoid putting excessive weight at the back of the wheelchair.

‍ ‍8. Regularly Check the Battery System

‍ ‍If you use a battery-powered wheelchair, regularly check the battery system to ensure it’s working properly. Inspect the battery for damage, keep it dry and away from heavy items, and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance and charging.

‍ 9. Clean the Wheelchair Regularly

‍ ‍Routinely clean all parts of your wheelchair, including the wheels, seats, and arms, to prevent the build-up of dirt and germs. This is especially important if the wheelchair user has open wounds or underlying health conditions that make them more susceptible to infections.

‍ 5. Additional Wheelchair Safety Tips

‍ ‍In addition to the general guidelines listed above, here are some more tips to make your wheelchair safe:

• Regular maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance for your wheelchair to ensure all parts are in good working condition.

• Weight limits: Make sure you and any accessories or items you carry are under the wheelchair’s weight limit for stability and safety.

• Follow traffic rules: When using your wheelchair outdoors, obey traffic signals, use crosswalks, and make yourself visible to others.

• Avoid steep inclines: Wheelchairs are designed for stability on level terrain, so be careful when navigating steep inclines or declines.

• Regularly check the seatbelt and harness: If your wheelchair has a seatbelt or harness, use it consistently and check that it works properly.

• Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest safety guidelines and recommendations from your wheelchair manufacturer and healthcare professionals.

‍ ‍

6. Implications for Safety and Visibility

‍ The data highlights the importance of increasing wheelchair safety and visibility measures to mitigate these risks. Recommended measures include:

• Using flags and reflective tape to increase daytime and passive nighttime visibility.

• Installing active lighting, such as LED strips or lights on wheels, for optimal visibility in low-light and nighttime conditions.

• Making eye contact with drivers and remaining aware of one's surroundings, especially at intersections.

• Ensuring proper wheelchair maintenance and addressing environmental hazards. 

‍ ‍

SEPARATE PAGE - DOCS/FORMS/Requests/Statements/Info (in order of use)

1. Acknowledgement Statement, having reviewed Volunteer Guidelines AND the Training Video

2. Volunteer Registration Form

3. Volunteer Consent and Release Form

4. *On NCS website, Complete Request for Screening Info

5. *On NCS website, Click “SUBMIT

6. Receive “Volunteer Certificate of Training and Appreciation”

7. Provide photo of client with flag

8. *If possible, provide video testimonial of client (along with “Media Release Form”)

9. “Volunteer Report”, including name, safety history, other info. (Will provide “report”)

SEPARATE PAGE- TESTIMONIALS and the remainder of the many pics I provided.

SEPARATE PAGE - SPONSORS

Good/Badwill Industries of America (and others)