steady, purposeful coordination and communication between those operating the ladder, those on the roof handling tag lines, and those on the ground receiving the patient. If that wasn ’ t enough, COFEMS leadership added an additional level of realism to the exercise by coordinating with external agencies. In fact, two of the three trainings involved the participation of an actual helicopter. Both PHI Air Medical from Brandy Station, and the FBI Hostage Rescue Team,
based in Quantico, lent aerial support during the scenario by landing, receiving a patient, lifting off, and returning for the second patient. Some of our staff even went along for the ride to provide for the simulated patient and gain more exposure to the continuum of care during aerial transport.
Following the exercises, “ hot wash ” meetings were held incorporating COFEMS staff, trainers, and partner agencies. This discussion provided the opportunity for additional learning about best practices, especially when a patient will be transported by helicopter. Trainers complimented the overall performance of our staff, especially noting the communication between team members.
The value of this hyper - realistic training was proven when crews responded to a (rare) actual call of a skydiving incident on August 18, coincidentally in the middle of the previously scheduled trainings. Much like the exercises, that call involved coordinating with Orange Volunteer Fire Company and transporting a patient to the Orange County Airport for transition to a helicopter. These exercises are just one example of how COFEMS staff keep their skills sharp year - round. While it ’ s hoped that some of these skills won ’ t be needed, our team is ready when the call does come.
Page 18 | September 2024
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