Eagle Scout project to help hikers, first responders
Masters, with help from Knox County Parks and Recreation Department, Rural Metro and the Appalachian Mountain Bike Club, plans to install between 30 and 40 emergency response locator signs along that trail, which begins beside the Knox County Dog Park near Northshore Drive.
“The signs are designed to help emergency responders more quickly identify those who might need medical assistance on the trail,” according to a press release from Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs’ office, which further stated the signs would be the first of their kind in Knox County.
“People needing help would be able to recall the sign they just passed, greatly reducing the guesswork for first responders when trying to locate them,” Masters said. “As a bonus, these signs will also function as trail markers to help trail users identify where they are at all times. Systems like this are used nationwide from Texas to Minnesota, and I hope to provide the community with a greater peace of mind with these signs placed in Concord.”
Masters, the son of Michael and Kelly Masters, is still in the fundraising portion of his project, which he hopes to conclude at the end of August, and has set an $800 goal to help pay for the signs.
He also will meet with Rural Metro officials to map out a system, with tentative plans to finish by the end of September. Masters also is working with the Appalachian Mountain Bike Club, which will take his idea forward with plans to provide the signage in other as yet undecided locations.
Jacobs commended the proposal and said the county would be happy to participate.
“We’re thrilled to be working with Mr. Masters on this project,” the Mayor said. “All of us should be proud that young people like Harrison call Knox County home.
“This project — which is Harrison’s idea — along with Harrison’s willingness to take the initiative and his determination to see it through, will help make Knox County an even better place to live, work and raise a family,” he added.
Masters said it was a suggestion from his father, who found similar signs in Asheville, North Carolina, along with a desire to help first responders in some way that helped inspire his Eagle Scout project.
He hopes it inspires others to adopt similar emergency plans across the county.
Masters has been a Boy Scout since first grade and is a member of Troop 630.
He also plays trumpet in the BHS Marching Band, is a member of HOSA and has future plans to pursue a career in the health care field.
For more information or to donate, contact Masters at mastershm1@comcast.net.
