WESTCHESTER, N.Y. (PIX11) – In an emergency, seconds can mean the difference between life and death.
That’s why the new law aims to get the right first responders where they’re needed, and quickly.
So-called “green light laws” will soon take effect across the state. This allows trained mobile mental health crisis responders to place a green light on their vehicle’s dashboard to alert other drivers that they are on their way to assist with a behavioral health crisis. .
The idea originated in Westchester County. There, a mobile mental health crisis response team was formed several years ago in response to calls for police reform.
“In a mental health crisis, every minute counts,” said Joe Glaser, deputy director of the Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health.
“What we really have to do is make sure they get to the places they’re serving quickly,” he said.
Glaser called the flashing green lights “curtesses lights.” If you see one on the road, please move out of the way and let it pass. Unlike flashing red lights used by police and firefighters, green lights do not allow drivers to speed or ignore red lights.
“Our mental health system has been under significant strain for many years and the need for help has exploded,” said Helen Dejay, a therapist at Newport Healthcare.
D’Jay said having trained mental health professionals respond quickly to emergencies could not only save the lives of people suffering from mental illness, but potentially save the lives of police officers as well. He said there is.
“Mental health emergencies can ultimately lead to violence and even death,” she says. “If we are trained to recognize the symptoms and respond in a manner appropriate to people suffering from mental health conditions, we can manage the scene in a safer and more peaceful manner.”
Individual cities have the option to opt out of using green lights. The law will come into effect on June 6th.
