Operational Readiness for First Responders

Operational Readiness for First Responders: Opioid Use Disorder Program

Equipping Firefighters, EMTs, Paramedics, & Associated Teams with Practical Skills to Respond to Opioid Use Disorder & Co-occurring Conditions

As a first responder, you’re on the front lines of the opioid crisis – often arriving at the scene before anyone else. This four-hour, online, self-paced course is designed specifically for firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, and crisis intervention teams to provide the knowledge and tools needed to respond effectively, safely, and compassionately to individuals experiencing Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) and co-occurring Mental Health (MH) or Substance Use Disorders (SUD). Gain real-world strategies to de-escalate crises, apply life-saving interventions, support individuals in crisis, and collaborate with local treatment and recovery resources.

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Additional Information

Program Instructors & Content Experts

​The esteemed faculty serving as content advisors and instructors for the course are recognized experts in their fields. Whether their contributions come through teaching, creating innovative materials, mentoring students, or advising on course content, they bring a unique blend of vision, inspiration, and practical skills. Together, they challenge your thinking, enhance your performance, and help you excel in your role.​

William "Bil" Rosen​

EMS Manager - Neptune Township EMS

​​Bil Rosen oversees all clinical and operational aspects of EMS planning, response, and treatment. With a focus on policy creation, quality assurance, and performance improvement, he leads a team of approximately 30 employees while supporting over 70 volunteers. As the Medical Module Leader for the Special Operations Team and Tactical Medic with the Southern Monmouth County Active Shooter Partnership, Bil provides rescue task force leadership and support for critical incidents. His responsibilities include budgeting, employee management, and fostering collaborations with community and governmental agencies to enhance EMS integration and preparedness.

With more than 40 years of experience, Bil has made significant contributions to emergency response and education. Previously, he served as a Mobile Intensive Care Paramedic and EMS educator, and currently as Deputy EMS Coordinator for the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office/Office of Emergency Management, where he oversees incident management and emergency preparedness. As a member and Training Module Manager of the New Jersey EMS Task Force (NJEMSTF), Bil specializes in mass care and warm-zone medical care. His dedication to advancing EMS training and operational readiness reflects his commitment to supporting first responders and ensuring community safety.

Dr. Jason Demas

Division Chief of Training - Aurora Fire Department​
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Dr. Jason Demas is the Division Chief of Training for the Aurora Fire Department in Illinois, bringing over 30 years of fire service experience. He has risen through the ranks from Firefighter/Paramedic to Battalion Chief and Shift Commander, now leading training initiatives that enhance emergency response and operational readiness. A dedicated educator, he has instructed at institutions such as Southern Illinois University, the Romeoville Fire Academy, and the Illinois Fire Service Institute. His expertise in curriculum development and emergency management has made him a sought-after speaker at national fire service conferences.

Dr. Demas holds a Doctorate in Higher Education and Administration, along with Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Fire Science Management from Southern Illinois University. A certified Executive Fire Officer and Chief Fire Officer, he has commanded major incidents, including the 2019 Pratt active shooter response and deployment to Ground Zero after 9/11. Recognized for his leadership and commitment to firefighter wellness, he has implemented fitness and stress management programs to support first responders. A passionate advocate for health and resilience, he continues to mentor and inspire the next generation of fire service professionals.

Dawn N. Peake, M.S.​

Co-Founder, Training Consultant - Innovative Training Solutions, LLC

Dawn N. Peake is an accomplished educator and training consultant with over 15 years of experience in instructional leadership. She holds a Master of Science in Educational Technology and Leadership from Johns Hopkins University and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Towson University. As Co-Founder and Training Consultant at Innovative Training Solutions LLC, Dawn develops comprehensive lesson plans and e-learning modules for non-profit organizations and law enforcement agencies, with a focus on supporting individuals with disabilities in the criminal justice system.

In addition to her consulting work, Dawn serves as a Training Officer and Curriculum Specialist with the Baltimore City Police Department, where she writes and revises lesson plans for both entry-level and continuing education programs. She plays a key role in managing special training projects, including Crisis Intervention Training, and collaborates with community stakeholders to ensure the effectiveness of the curricula. Dawn’s passion for inclusive practices and her dedication to educational innovation make her a leader in her field.

Edward G. Hargis

Owner & President - Code 5 Solutions, LLC
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Edward G. Hargis is a highly experienced law enforcement and crisis management professional with a distinguished career in policing, emergency operations, and security consulting. As the President of Code 5 Solutions, LLC, he specializes in security, threat assessment, and crisis management consulting and training. Previously, he served as Chief of Police in Frederick, MD, Portsmouth, VA, and Camden NJ, where he led major public safety initiatives, implemented crime reduction strategies, and enhanced community-police relations. His leadership was instrumental in launching body-worn camera programs, strategic policing initiatives, and developing critical incident response capabilities.

With 38 years of experience, Hargis has held leadership roles in police operations, critical incident management, and SWAT. He has coordinated security for major events, managed emergency response efforts, and worked closely with federal, state, county and military agencies on counter terrorism and public safety operations. He has served as a Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator, volunteer firefighter and Combat Medic with the Army National Guard. A graduate of the FBI National Academy, he holds a master's in administrative science and a bachelor's in public administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University. His expertise in crisis response, incident command, and security operations continues to shape best practices in both the public and private sectors.​

View course descriptions and more information on the partner program page.