On September 9th, Norco hosted a class for 15 students (10 are Norco Club members) to obtain 2 year certifications for First Aid/CPR/AED, Gunshot Wound Management, and Blood Pathologens. The instructor Scott Goldstein, a high-energy Fire Dept Chief and trainer from Baltimore County Fire and Medical Training Inc, provided a full day of practical training that focused on muscle memory through immediate hands-on practicing of the proper techniques for CPR, using an AED, triaging wound types, learning to use several different types of tourniquets and bandages, and how to improvise a wound treatment with what you have on-hand. Every second counts to save a life or save a limb. Several students who were trained a while ago or eons ago learned several treatment methods have changed with the times such as for CPR getting right into compression first, instead of the past technique of ABC where airway and breathing were first.
The class included first responder practical scenarios, best told through the photos from the day, including gunshot wound to the chest, gut knife wound, loss of fingers and damaged limbs, extensive gunpowder burns while reloading, accidental arrow shooting to the torso, and an attempted self-injury with a fire-arm. First responders had to secure the scene, notify emergency services, and begin treatment.
One outcome of the day will be the range committees improving the first kits we have on hand at the club ranges to include IFAKs to address gunshot wound management.
All students had a great day and are better prepared to help others in need.
One of the students shared their experience:
“Thank you Norco! I am very glad it worked out for me to take the class. Great instructor and very informative! I now know I could take action in an emergency situation rather than be a by stander. The way Scott taught the class and set up the hands on practice greatly increased my knowledge retention and I will retain the skill. If we had to have watched videos, I doubt much would stick in our brains after conclusion of the class. Scott did a super job covering an immense amount of topic in a short time. It was also nice to meet many of the Norco members and see the club. If I can make time, I will get going on applying for my FID card and consider joining Norco. Take care and Happy Fall.”
