Jim,
I noted your recent reply to someone regarding medical training and thought I’d drop you an email. For a point of reference I’ll first state that I’m a paramedic by trade. Knowing all people won’t be able to take advantage of the class you reference I would suggest if people are interested in learning basic CPR and first aid courses I would highly recommend they contact their local EMS offices. This is especially true in the rural setting as many smaller services offer courses at very low cost. For those that may have a little time on their hands they may want to see if their local EMS stations offer an EMT-Basic course, several community colleges also offer these courses in the evening. It should be noted just like anything else some instructors are better than others so ask around if you can.
One thing people should consider is if they can achieve an EMT-Basic state certification many rural EMS system have first responders that provide assistance within their systems. That is to say they will often provide a first responder with a pager, basic bandaging supplies, oxygen tanks and some of the accompanying equipment to respond to emergencies and provide first response assistance. I’m sure most people can see the benefit in this as they receive experience and equipment all for the cost of their time helping others when their available and if SHTF you’ve got some equipment that you can use for your own purposes.
For those that don’t have that kind of time available I would suggest reading material. Look for an EMT-Basic book to start off with and then move on to EMT-Paramedic materials. Two well known instructional EMS material providers are printed by Bryan Bledsoe or Mosby with various authors. Another good book that covers variety of subjects is the Special Operations Forces Medical Handbook, but some knowledge of the basics is suggested for this book. Hope this information provides to be useful.- J.S.
Letter Re: Priority of Training?
