24 ASL signs all first responders should know

Check out these video clips for the most important words to know when working with someone who is deaf or hearing-impaired


According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 15 percent of U.S. adults report some trouble hearing. As first responders who work and communicate with the public every day, it’s likely you will come across someone who is deaf or hard of hearing during your career.

Below are 24 words and phrases that will help you communicate with someone who is hearing-impaired and will allow you to provide care more easily until an interpreter can be acquired.

1. Yes

 

2. No

 

3. Stop

 

4. Pain

 

5. EMT or paramedic

 

6. Firefighter

 

7. I don’t understand


8. Calm down

 

9. Are you hurt?

 

10. MEDICINE


11. Do you need help?

 

12. What is wrong?

 

13. Are you safe?

 

14. Follow me

 

15. Ambulance

 

16. Fire

 

17. Emergency

 

18. Evacuate

 

19. Hospital

 

20. Oxygen

 

21. Breathe

 

22. Heart

 

23. Bleeding


24. Accident


For additional resources, watch this collaborative video created by Spokane, Washington, emergency services and law enforcement on best practices for first responders when working with members of the community who may be deaf or hard of hearing.

 

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