Reflective markers could aid first responders
VERMILION TWP — Older residents could receive reflective address signs through a new pilot program intended to help first responders locate homes more quickly during emergencies.
Vermilion Township trustees unanimously agreed Wednesday to work with Erie County Serving Our Seniors on the Reflective Address Signage for Seniors program.
Sue Daugherty of Serving Our Seniors said the Erie County Sheriff’s Office raised concerns about deputies having difficulty locating homes without clearly visible address numbers, particularly at night and along roads without streetlights.
“When there’s a deputy that needs to respond, sometimes it’s very difficult to find the house if the house number is not on the mailbox,” Daugherty said.
The proposed signs would be green with reflective white numbers. Residents would qualify if they are at least 60 years old, live in Vermilion Township and do not already have adequate reflective address signage.
Serving Our Seniors is prepared to spend up to $2,000 on the pilot. Township Chair Kenn Baughman estimated the funding could provide approximately 100 signs.
The township fire department can produce the signs, while Road Department employees would install them as their schedules permit.
“We would do the labor and put them up,” Baughman said.
Trustees directed the township administrator to prepare a memorandum of understanding establishing that Serving Our Seniors will pay for the signs and the township will provide the installation labor.
Daugherty said the township program could serve as a pilot for similar efforts elsewhere in Erie County. Vermilion Township may also be able to produce signs for neighboring communities, although those communities would be responsible for arranging installation.
Baughman said after the meeting that the program will begin immediately and eligible residents may apply now.