Students get hands-on experience at First Responder Camp

(GRENSBURG, Ind.) – The inaugural First Responder Camp in Greensburg provided students with an insight into police, fire and emergency medical careers. 

It was hosted by Decatur County EMS in partnership with Decatur County Memorial Hospital, the Decatur County Sheriff’s Department, Greensburg Fire Department, and Greensburg Police Department.

The students got hands-on training and real-world exposure to public safety professions during the three-day camp. 

Some activities included advanced airway management, fire department physical agility testing, firearms safety, tactical response team requirements, police K-9 search and apprehension demonstrations, and emergency response scenarios.

The camp concluded with a field day featuring a scavenger hunt, an impaired driving obstacle course using pedal bikes, hands-on vehicle extrication, and a landing zone demonstration by IU Health LifeLine.

“This camp was created to give students a realistic look at what it takes to serve their communities as first responders,” said Matt Myers, EMS Manager. “We hope to inspire the next generation of EMS providers, firefighters, and law enforcement officers.”

The program was open to Greensburg and Decatur County students with an interest in EMS, fire service, or law enforcement. 

Decatur County EMS and its partners look to continue and expand the program in future years to provide additional opportunities for local students interested in serving the community.