Step up to survival summit

NORWALK — Through the Huron County-based Responder Exposure Assistance and Care Team, local first responders welcome anyone, including the general public, to attend an upcoming survival summit. It will focus on first responder mental health. "Every responder deserves a moment to reset," according to a summit statement. The event takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Norwalk Eagles Club, 151 Cline St., Norwalk. Among some talking points of the summit, it will highlight: • Mental health survival strategies for frontline responders • Stress management and resilience training • Real-world tools for high-pressure environments • Networking with regional first responders. Many speakers are planning to attend as well: John Soisson, a retired chief from Norwalk fire; Steve Click, director of the Office of First Responder Wellness; Matt Crockett of the Cleveland Fire Department; and Dave Freemen of the Lorain County Emergency Management Agency This event does cost $20 but includes breakfast and lunch. People can register and learn more by visiting huroncountyreact.org. Bio blast The Huron County Responder Exposure Assistance and Care Team provided some additional information about itself: • Who it is: "The Huron County Responder Exposure Assistance and Care Team is a Huron County peer support program that is available 24/7 to any Huron County responder in need. The team is made up of local first responders who understand the unique challenges faced by first responders." • What it does, part 1: "Team members are equipped to provide support to their peers through formal and informal relationships that address psychological, emotional, spiritual and physical health. Peer supporters provide emotional support, share knowledge, teach skills, provide practical assistance and connect people with resources, opportunities, communities of support and other people." • What it does, part 2: "Team members are available to meet with peers individually and also in group settings when requested. The team may be contacted to meet with a department or certain members of a department after a difficult call to help them process the event, provide support and link them with resources for additional services if needed." • How to request support: "Visit our peer supporters page (huroncountyreact.org/peer-supporters) to learn more about our team. Contact information for each team member may be found on their bio and you may contact them directly."