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The Fourth of July holiday is a special time in every community. We not only honor our country's independence, but enjoy time with family and friends.

Celebrations traditionally include cookouts and fireworks. A good time is had by all – until an accident happens. Nationwide, there are an average of 400 deaths and 41,000 injuries – including car crashes, swimming incidents and fireworks accidents – during the July 4th holiday period.

The American Red Cross and the National Safety Council remind us to take some safety precautions with celebrating The Fourth. Here are a few:

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Paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians are the first to assess someone who is ill or injured and provide treatment.

That is why these highly skilled providers are such an important part of the Johnson Memorial Health system, especially during the recent COVID-19 pandemic.

“The field of EMS attracts some of the most passionate and caring people out there. Especially now, with how this virus has swept over our nation. When people call 911, regardless of their illness or injury, we respond,” says Anthony M. Lauinger, Johnson Memorial Health EMS Coordinator and Paramedic Firefighter at the City of Franklin Fire Department.

The birth of the EMT was considered to be in 1969. Before that, it was fire departments with no true medical guidance or funeral homes who picked people up to drive them to the hospital rendering little medical aid. Around 1972, the first paramedic curriculum was developed.

“We see people on the worst days of their lives, entering uncontrolled and sometimes unsafe settings just to help. Now more than ever I am proud to be a Paramedic. I am excited to see where the field of EMS grows, and to help develop it along the way,” says Lauinger.

Here are 10 interesting facts about EMS professionals:

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Nearly everyone knows someone who has had a stroke. It's the fifth leading cause of death among Americans, and a stroke can happen to anyone at anytime. A stroke is a serious medical emergency. Acting fast can prevent more damage from occurring. Stokes can be treated and prevented.  Up to 80% of strokes can be prevented! Knowing the signs and symptoms of stroke increase your chances of getting immediate medical help which helps minimize damage and other potential complications. 

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Act FAST. That’s the #1 thing to keep in mind if you suspect someone is having a stroke. Every moment counts, and quick action saves lives. Every 4 minutes, someone in the U.S. dies of stroke.

The good news is that 80 percent of strokes can be prevented or limited through fast action. In fact, FAST is an acronym for the stroke factors to keep in mind: face, arms, speech, time. Each represents a key set of noticeable symptoms:

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They are on the front lines of a war.

Healthcare providers, first responders and essential workers leave their homes each day to serve others impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. They are treating patients suffering from the disease, answering 911s call or gathering and delivering groceries.

They put themselves in danger of exposure because that’s what they do – and because they also have to provide for their families.

Their dedication has been one of the remarkable stories during this pandemic. Some have become sick from the virus. Others have stayed away from their families to avoid spreading it. Others have given their lives.

Without question, we owe them our sincerest gratitude. Because most of us are self-isolated in our homes, we wonder how to show our appreciation.

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You know you should stay at a distance to help avoid the spread of the COVID-19 virus. You also know to wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water and to wear a mask when going to the grocery store or on other essential trips.

But what can you do to keep yourself healthy while staying at home – in isolation while waiting for state and local health officials to say it is safe to venture out again?

There are three critical areas to focus on: eating right, getting enough sleep and exercising your body.

Let’s explore:

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Part 2 of 2

Our routines are disrupted. We are worried about our health and finances while dealing with this COVID-19 outbreak.

Beyond taking precautions with our physical health, we need to care for our mental well-being during isolation.

Here are some coping strategies:

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Part 1 of 2

The fear about your physical health and finances are overwhelming right now as you deal with the COVID-19 outbreak.

Your worries are real. That’s is why it is important to care for your mental outlook as we work through social distancing and isolation. As you reflect on what is happening, please keep this in mind:

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The news is scary about the Coronavirus COVID-19 infection that is rapidly spreading worldwide and in the United States.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Indiana State Department of  Health are working 24/7 to deal with the pandemic, while also educating the public about the disruptions to our daily lives.

They continue to say  we should treat this matter seriously as reports of infection grow in our communities.

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You know something is wrong with your family member, friend or co-worker. He or she seems depressed or is sometimes acting irrationally.

Though a physical ailment could be causing the behavioral issue, it could be a mental illness.

What should you do? How can you help? Is there a way to provide first aid - similar to giving CPR to a heart attack victim? The answer is yes.

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