Pam Dudding
Contributing writer
It is true that when someone is allowed to physically do something, verses just read it in a manual, their educational and training value is sky-rocketed.
The local EMS group agrees and recently received some very valuable training which indirectly could help to save the lives of citizens in Craig County in the future.
“We recently held a training in collaboration with EMS Medical Director Daniel Sapp which is a valuable asset to us all as providers. The recent session on airway management, shock medications, and cardiology not only expanded the knowledge but also boosted confidence among providers, contributing to a higher level of service to the community,” shared Amber Charette, EMS education coordinator. “Creating a robust EMS training program is essential for enhancing community service. By prioritizing comprehensive training, we ensure providers are well-prepared to handle diverse situations, ultimately improving the overall quality of emergency medical services.”
The EMS mission is, “To provide pre-hospital emergency medical care. Committed to saving lives and protecting the wellbeing of all Craig County residents. Craig County Rescue – EMS dedicates itself to providing exceptional emergency medical services through skilled volunteers, innovative training and community engagement.”
Charette added, “The ability to provide proper training after creating the program relies heavily on having the proper training equipment which is something that we are in the process of applying for grants to obtain.”
They were able to physically train with animal parts of pig tracheas and lungs that they used to practice surgical cricothyroidotomy. All parts were sourced responsibly.
“The continuing educational training that was hosted this past weekend was very educational for those who attended,” said Chief Robert Wrzosek, “We had excellent lecture and hands on training, and I wish to thank everyone who came to teach and the ones who participated.”
“Our recent training is just one more step of many in our efforts to overhaul our training program, and the volunteer rescue squad as a whole. This last training covered much needed topics and skills that all of the counties EMS providers have either never had the chance to practice hands on, or it has been many years since the last time they were able to practice,” said Trace Bellassai, first lieutenant. “The department has greatly increased its number of dedicated volunteers, and holding these trainings ensures we are all able to remain at the top of our game.”
They reported that the Craig County Volunteer Rescue Squad has more than doubled its call volume in the last two years.
Therefore, having the volunteer squad has helped to “save the county money in the process and gives us all the opportunity to serve the community we love,” they added.
However, these training courses take funds and additional equipment.
“Most of our current training equipment is outdated and we are currently searching for grants or other ways to acquire new training equipment to continue to offer high quality training like this one,” Bellassai said. “Any donations to help us in that effort are greatly appreciated.”
Those who are interested may visit the website at www.craigrescue.com.
The Craig County Rescue – EMS is a 100% volunteer organization, funded from many sources, such as insurance, state, and federal grant programs, but most importantly, the generous donations from local residences and businesses.
“Your donation will help us stock our emergency medical equipment, maintain our vehicles, provide training to our membership, and much more,” they shared.
The mailing address is Craig County Rescue – EMS, PO Box 81, New Castle, VA 24127, and the physical address for monetary or other donations is 258 Paint Bank Rd. New Castle, VA 24127, otherwise known as “the flats” in New Castle.
“We are a 100% volunteer force and rely on the desire to give back from people like you to serve Craig County,” the group shared. “Interested in helping out but not sure how you can help? We need help not only from those interested in becoming EMT’s, but also those who are willing to help with fundraising, grant writing, and all sorts of other things we have to do to remain in operation.”
See the “Get Involved” tab for more information on their website or call 540-864-5115.
