EMT Program at STCC to Hold Car-accident Rescue Training on Dec. 7

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) EMT program will hold a rescue training exercise for students on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 9 a.m. to noon. in the college’s parking lot #2 on Pearl Street.

Participants will include emergency medical technician (EMT) students, the Springfield Fire Department, and a member of American Medical Response (AMR), a medical-transportation company. The training will include a demonstration of the Jaws of Life extraction tool, which is used to pry open parts of a vehicle to free people trapped inside.

About 18 EMT students will participate in mock rescue exercises. They each will bring a family member or friend who will play the role of victim.

Simulated accidents include ‘rescuing’ people who have been involved in car crashes and who require rapid extrication. Other scenarios include victims struck by vehicles, victims of impaired driving, gunshot wounds (drive-by shootings), and special circumstances such as hazardous-material spills and the transportation of expectant mothers.

The EMT program at STCC gives students a foundation in basic life-support skills and techniques, patient assessment, and safe transportation. Unlike many other EMT programs in the area, the STCC program allows students to earn college credit. For more information about the program, click here.