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Matthew Savitsky, his wife Tanya Savitsky, and Jordan Bittan the Adjunct Instructor

Featured Article

Empowering Families

The Vitality of Emergency Training in Uncertain Times

In today's uncertain world, preparedness for emergencies is more crucial than ever. As
Matthew Savitsky, founder of SY6 Emergency Training, emphasizes, safety training is not merely a necessity but a crucial life skill, particularly for families. His path to founding SY6 stems from a diverse background in emergency medicine, law enforcement, and military service. Starting as an emergency medical technician (EMT) in New Jersey since 2004, Savitsky transitioned into law enforcement, rising to the rank of Detective in Bergen County by 2021. His dedication to public safety led him to become certified as a School Resource Officer by the New Jersey Association of School Resource Officers (NJASRO).

Savitsky's journey into emergency training goes beyond certifications; it's driven by personal experiences and a desire to empower communities. After 12 years in the U.S. Army, including a deployment to eastern Afghanistan where he reached the rank of Captain, Savitsky brought his real-world expertise back home in 2016.

His decision to become certified as an American Safety & Health Institute Instructor-Trainer, American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) Instructor, and AVERT Instructor-Trainer wasn't just about adding credentials. It was a moment where he realized the impact he could have on his community. Each certification brought its own "aha" moments—instances where Savitsky witnessed firsthand how proper training could save lives, whether through administering CPR or teaching other essential safety protocols. 

SY6 Emergency Training offers a range of courses tailored to unique needs, with a focus on family health and safety. From child and infant safety courses to CPR and AED training, the company equips participants with essential skills to handle emergencies at home or in public settings. Participants learn how to respond to choking incidents in young children, a skill that can make a significant difference in emergency situations. “We want families to feel confident in their ability to respond to any situation,” says Savitsky. 

Savitsky's approach stands out for its practicality and accessibility, which is evident in initiatives like the Child Safety Course. These courses are designed to be held in people's homes or any preferred location, creating a comfortable environment conducive to learning. This flexibility was exemplified recently when our magazine, in collaboration with SY6 Emergency Training, partnered with the local 'FIT4MOM' group to host a Child and Infant Safety Course this past June. Many parents attended, eager to learn lifesaving techniques in an interactive setting.

The emphasis on small group sizes ensures that each participant receives personalized attention during the sessions. "By bringing the training directly to families, we can address their specific concerns and tailor the content to their needs," explains Savitsky. This personalized approach not only enhances learning but also ensures that families gain practical skills that are directly applicable to their everyday lives.

“One of the key aspects of the training is instilling confidence in participants.” Savitsky acknowledges that freezing up in emergencies is a common response for many people, but he believes that with the right training and guidance, individuals can overcome this hurdle. By simplifying complex procedures and providing clear instructions, Savitsky aims to empower participants to take decisive action when faced with an emergency. 

The importance of safety training has become even more apparent in recent years, with the rise in unexpected crises and incidents. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the need for individuals to be prepared to handle emergencies, especially when traditional support systems may not be readily available. Savitsky's courses have seen increased demand as more people recognize the importance of being proactive about their safety and the safety of their loved ones especially in Bergen County. 

In addition to basic first aid and CPR, SY6 Emergency Training offers specialized courses like 'Stop the Bleed' and 'Active Violence Emergency Response Training (AVERT),' which are designed to prepare individuals for critical and often unexpected emergencies.

Savitsky shares, "For 'Stop the Bleed' participants learn how to quickly apply tourniquets and pack wounds to control severe bleeding. It's a skill that can truly save lives." He adds, "Similarly, our 'AVERT' course goes beyond traditional safety training by integrating tactical response strategies with medical interventions" 

Savitsky also emphasizes the importance of having the necessary equipment on hand, such as bleeding control kits, AED's, and Narcan for opioid overdoses. Preparedness extends beyond just knowing what to do; it also involves having the right tools readily available to spring into action when needed. 

“For families, safety training is not just about acquiring a certificate; it's about gaining peace of mind knowing that they have the knowledge and skills to handle emergencies effectively,” Savitsky says. Whether it's administering CPR to a loved one or applying a tourniquet to stop bleeding, the confidence gained from safety training can make a life-saving difference. 

Emergency safety training plays a vital role in safeguarding families and communities. Through accessible and practical courses, individuals can acquire the skills and confidence needed to respond effectively in crisis situations. As Matthew Savitsky's mission shows, being prepared can make all the difference when seconds count. 

For more information, please visit www.Sy6Training.com 

For families, safety training is not just about acquiring a certificate; it's about gaining peace of mind. - Matthew Savitsky