Las Vegas Fire and Rescue is taking an active role to help address human trafficking in our community.
In 2019, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department identified 139 cases involving adult victims of human trafficking and 116 victims who are minors. Many times, the first call for help comes into Las Vegas Fire and Rescue dispatch requesting medical attention.
Las Vegas Fire and Rescue created a program for dispatchers and fire departments in Southern Nevada and around the country to recognize the signs of someone who is a victim of human trafficking. The department also trains firefighters who respond to the scene on how to help someone who may be a victim.
Some of the core training includes:
- What to look for (tattoos, branding, not making eye contact, etc)
- How responders should act (be kind, make eye contact, get the victim away from someone who may be threatening them, etc.)
The training for dispatch and fire responders teaches them how to approach these scenes and situations. The curriculum explains the trauma these patients may have endured and how to treat them with empathy. The department works closely with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, which also undergoes training.
Potential victims are given information on where they can go when they’re ready for help and available resources.
If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, call 9-1-1. Additional resources can be found here: https://ovc.ojp.gov/program/human-trafficking/about-human-trafficking#akozg8 or on Facebook.