Eleven officers from the Fire and regular departments of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda recently completed an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Recertification Training Programme at the American University of Antigua (AUA).
The five-day programme was designed to refresh and strengthen the participants’ knowledge and practical skills in emergency medical response, while reinforcing the importance of continuous learning, accuracy, efficiency, teamwork, and preparedness.
Director of the Emergency Medical Training Centre, Dr. Courtney Lewis, encouraged the participants to maintain a high standard of readiness, reminding them to “practice until it becomes instinct.” He also emphasized the importance of collaboration and continuous professional development in ensuring an effective response to medical emergencies.
Fire Chief and Deputy Commissioner of Police Vivian Parker highlighted the critical importance of EMT training, noting that the knowledge and skills acquired can make the difference between life and death during an emergency.
DCP Parker also expressed appreciation to Emergency Medical Services personnel for their support throughout the training. In particular, he acknowledged the assistance of two EMS personnel who were assigned to the Airport Fire Outpost Station to provide additional support while fire officers participated in the programme.
During the course overview, participants were reminded that emergency medical practices and procedures continue to evolve and, consequently, professional learning must remain an ongoing process. This principle was captured in the message, “Unlearn to Relearn,” encouraging participants to remain receptive to new knowledge, updated techniques, and changing professional standards.
The participants are Jess Bristol, Akeem Finch, Brad Benjamin, Darius Ambrose, Julion Daniel, Leona Ogarro, Orson Joseph, Tammie Ann Brookes, Tijahma Burns, Tyrell Benjamin, and Xavier Fernes.
Meanwhile, Commissioner of Police, Mr. Everton Jeffers, congratulated the officers on successfully completing the recertification programme and encouraged them to put their renewed knowledge and skills into practice in the execution of their duties.
Commissioner Jeffers noted that the training comes at an opportune time, as Antigua and Barbuda prepares to host the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in a matter of weeks.
He emphasized that emergency preparedness and the ability of first responders to provide timely and effective medical assistance are important components of the Force’s overall readiness for an event of such national and international significance.
He thanked the facilitators, Emergency Medical Services personnel, and all those who contributed to the successful completion of the programme.
This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Eleven Officers Complete EMT Recertification Training.