pages: CityCouncil/2021-07-06.pdf, 3
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CityCouncil | 2021-07-06 | 3 | called out to the scene; the 5150 training is critical; very few Fire Departments within the State are allowed to provide the service outside of Police Departments; the training would allow AFD to take over 5150 calls; the County EMS agency is working with the County Mental Health Department to give approval and training through the Mental Health Department. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether AFD would respond to service calls which are considered non-violent and non-combative or whether APD would respond. The Interim Fire Chief responded if callers are be violent or presenting the potential for violence toward themselves or another, APD would be needed; stated AFD would respond to non-medical and non-violent calls for service; medical units are a radio call away if the need arises. Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated there are times where dispatch does not know the full situation when providing service call information; inquired whether AFD is able to administer Naloxone in instances of an overdose. The Interim Fire Chief responded in the affirmative; stated if calls have a medical need associated with a drug related problem, a medical need will be determined and a first responder with ambulance transport will be involved. In response to Councilmember Herrera Spencer's inquiry, the Deputy Fire Chief stated many times when a call is responded to, the situation is evaluated and a determination is made whether there is a medical component needing treatment; outlined various medical ailments which need treatment; stated the Police determine whether or not to call a 5150 hold; Officers have the choice between calling in a 5150 hold or taking individuals to a hospital for treatment; the proposed program will allow the current process to expand evaluation and look at alternate destinations for individuals; situations may call for different approaches depending on the individual; the proposal includes a mental health professional offering follow-up care and will allow AFD to evaluate the situation to offer the best care; the proposal is currently in use by the San Francisco Fire Department with 11 crisis mobile units; San Mateo County also uses paramedic EMT responses to mental health crisis calls; the proposal does not stipulate treating an individual on-site; however, AFD will be able to deescalate situations and evaluate the proper destination for individuals. Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated the City currently has meetings with AFD and Alameda Hospital; the meetings allow the public to participate; inquired whether adding the proposed pilot program to the quarterly meetings would be appropriate in order to allow for public participation. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated the discussion must remain on the topic of mental health response as an alternative to Police. Continued June 15, 2021 Regular Meeting Alameda City Council July 6, 2021 3 | CityCouncil/2021-07-06.pdf |