Friday, June
28 – Twenty emergency responders are now
trained in rope rescue techniques, which are the final search and rescue course
designed for emergency responders, and the management of the Incident Command Systems
(ICS).
The one-day training took place this
week at the Virgin Islands Fire and Rescue Service followed by two days of
practical ICS training. The training was
facilitated by Mr. Peter Burges; a Pan American Health Organization (PAHO)
certified instructor and retired Colour Sergeant of the Barbados Defence Force.
The rope rescue module provided
training in rope rescue fundamentals and focused on high angle rescue
techniques. Emphasis was placed on knots, knot passing through rappels and the
associated commands. Practical application was taught through scenarios drawn
from actual rescue experience.
The ICS module covered the principles
and organisational structure of the incident management system which was
adopted by the Caribbean for use in managing emergency and disaster situations.
The training targeted responders involved in communications and information management,
resource management, and command and management.
Deputy Director, Evangeline Inniss,
who manages the DDM Community Preparedness programme, indicated that the rope
rescue was offered as a refresher course for fire fighters. In describing why the two modules were linked
she said, “We have received requests for the ICS training and based on the results of
simulation exercises held earlier in the year, the area of command and control
was highlighted as one area that required focus attention to improve capacity
among responders. Funding opportunities
became available and we sought to maximise its use by linking these modules.”
Ms. Inniss further said, “The ICS
training provided practical applications on the establishment and management of
a field command post. Mr. Burges was
selected because he has an extensive background in this area and is known for
his ability to get responders to fully engage themselves in the practical applications”
Both modules are being funded by the
African, Caribbean Pacific European Union (ACP EU) Natural Disaster Facility
Disaster Risks Management Sub-Regional Programme managed through the Caribbean
Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) with input from the Pan American
Health Organization.
