FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

San Bernardino, CA – On December 12, 2024, the Inland Regional Center’s (IRC) Emergency Operations Center (EOC) team joined forces with the Training and Development Team to host an informative IRC 101 session for first responders and county staff. The session provided an in-depth overview of IRC’s critical role during emergencies, highlighting the importance of collaboration between IRC and local agencies to ensure the safety of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).

Representatives from In-Roads Creative Program Inc., the Riverside Emergency Management Department (EMD), the San Bernardino County Office of Emergency Services, and the San Bernardino County Department of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) were among those who attended.

Key Topics Covered

1. Understanding IRC’s Role
   Participants gained insights into the structure and operations of the Inland Regional Center, one of California’s 21 Regional Centers, which serves more than 54,000 clients across Riverside and San Bernardino counties.
2. Emergency Operations and Response Plans
   Attendees learned how IRC’s Emergency Operations Center integrates with county and state services through the Incident Command System (ICS) to address critical challenges such as evacuation, sheltering, and communication for individuals with I/DD.
3. Characteristics of I/DD in Crisis
   Experts discussed the unique needs of individuals with I/DD during emergencies, focusing on sensory sensitivities, communication barriers, and customized evacuation strategies.
4. Collaborative Partnerships
   The session underscored IRC’s partnerships with law enforcement, county EOCs, and shelter organizations to ensure accessibility and inclusion in disaster response efforts.
5. Overview of the Blue Envelope Program
   Participants were introduced to the Blue Envelope Program, a vital initiative to improve communication and foster understanding between individuals with specific conditions and law enforcement.

Insights from Leadership

“Disasters don’t wait, nor do we,” said Marquis Quinton, IRC Emergency Services Coordinator. “Our partnerships with first responders and county teams are essential in ensuring no one is left behind.”

Looking Ahead: Building a Safer, More Inclusive Future

The IRC EOC team is committed to expanding its outreach efforts by offering additional training sessions and resources. These initiatives aim to foster a culture of preparedness and inclusiveness across the Inland Empire, ensuring that every individual, regardless of ability, is supported during times of crisis.

For more information about IRC’s emergency preparedness initiatives or to schedule a training session, please contact [email protected].

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Community Engagement

Inland Regional Center's Community Engagement Unit can be reached at [email protected]