Just days after the bombing at the Boston Marathon those trained in First Aid in Alberta were exposed to a similar scenario.
The St. John Alberta Provincial First Aid Competition set up an explosion situation for participants.
“Accidents and emergencies don’t happen Monday to Friday, nine to five,” vice president of training and community services Beverly Lafortue said.
She added that the scenario had been planned for months and was an unfortunate coincidence to Monday’s incident.
However, participants said the reality of the scenario made their training seem more relevant.
“It’s tough to see it on TV and know that you could do some good there,” Neil Plante told CTV News.
“We know that during an emergency anyone who has training seems to be willing to run in when everybody else is running out,” Lafortune said.
Third-time competitor, Barb Walker, agreed.
“You get caught up in the moment and it is like the real thing.
“You forget about everything around you.”
Lafortune said that it took six to eight months of planning and preparation for the competition.
“It really gives teams that true opportunity to test themselves.”
She explained that the competition has been held since the 1920s.
Over 50 volunteers helped bring the situation to life for the 12 teams.
There are judges and awards are handed out at an evening banquet.
“You certainly can’t beat that type of experience,” Plante added.
With files from Breanna Karstens-Smith
