By Holly Walker
When training to become a first responder, you must prepare for a wide variety of challenging situations, including emergencies that involve mass casualties.
On Saturday, December 3, Tyler’s EMS/paramedic students and students in other health science programs at the college will put their skills to the test during a mass casualty incident drill. This fast-paced, high-pressure scenario will require students to quickly assess the scene and available resources; determine a response plan; triage patients; determine medical and resource priorities; render care; and more.
The goal is to help students learn how to manage crisis situations in which there are exceedingly high numbers of patients, and the resources needed to assist those patients are stretched beyond their normal capacities. To offer the best learning experience possible, the drill must be realistic and involve dozens of patients in moulage – make-up that’s made to look like injuries.
Tyler’s EMS program is looking for dozens of volunteers who are willing to play the role of patient. Volunteers who have make-up that can be used in the simulation of injuries or who are skilled in art of moulage are especially needed. Tyler students, alumni, faculty and staff, as well as members of the community are welcome to volunteer.
The mass casualty incident exercise will take place at the Chester Campus in Moyar Hall, room M123, from 11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. on December 3, and it may involve other EMS and medical organizations.
Sign up online to be a volunteer.
If you have questions about the exercise, contact Daniel Linkins, assistant professor of EMS, at dlinkins@jtcc.edu or 804-706-5134.