PWC children to be honored for lifesaving calls to 9-1-1 in family emergencies

Three boys and girls will be honored by the Prince William County Office of Public Safety Communications on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2 at 1 p.m. during a “Make the Right Call” presentation.

The ceremony will be held at the Sean T. Connaughton Plaza adjacent to the McCoart Government Center, 1 County Complex Court, Prince William, VA (22192) as part of Public Safety Day, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The community is invited.

The children, who were between the ages of eight and 10 at the time of the incidents, all knew to call
9-1-1 in an emergency, they all remained calm throughout events, and all are credited with helping out during medical or other types of emergencies.

Evan Roseberry called 9-1-1 in December 2014 because an adult family member suffered a medical emergency and was having difficulty breathing. Evan, then eight years old, remained calm, provided his home address and phone number, and provided updates to the call-taker as needed. His family said they are so proud of Evan because he took charge even though he was probably frightened and did an excellent job.

Cassidy Wayson called 9-1-1 in December 2013 because an adult family member suffered a medical emergency and was unconscious. Cassidy, then 10 years old, maintained a calm demeanor and gave all the assistance necessary to help the call-taker and emergency responders help her family member. Her family said they are very proud of her and are grateful that Cassidy was being recognized by Public Safety Communications.

Alden Yergey called 9-1-1 in November 2013 because a juvenile family member suffered a medical emergency and experienced a seizure. Alden, then nine years old, called 9-1-1 while an adult family member took care of the juvenile. The call-taker noted that Alden was very clear on the nature of the emergency and remained calm while giving her address and phone number. Her family said that Alden has always been on top of things, helping out when she was just a toddler when the juvenile family member had a seizure.

The “Make the Right Call program” shows the importance of knowing how to properly use 9-1-1 when emergency help is needed,” said Police Captain Heidi Braun, director of the Public Safety Communications Center. “Please join us in congratulating these boys and girls for properly using 9-1-1 to help save lives.”

Public Safety Day will be observed from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Plaza. There will be demos from Police, Fire & Rescue and the Sheriff’s Office. The Animal Shelter will also be on hand, and there will be food vendors as well. The community is invited to come out and spend the afternoon, including helping PWC public safety departments celebrate the three children who made “the right call.”