Published on 18 June 2021
University of Sunderland Paramedic Science and Out of Hospital Care students took part in the National Resilience Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) training exercise hosted by Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) at its headquarters in Washington bringing almost 150 people together, over the two-day test.
They faced a series of incident simulations to compare responses, helping a Home Office project look at how their work can be developed in the future.
The organisations who joined the host service included fire and rescue services from County Durham and Darlington; Lancashire; Cumbria and West Yorkshire.
Others also drafted in were Northumbria Police, the North East Ambulance Service’s Hazardous Area Response Team, Military Observer, Salvation Army and our students.
Scenarios included a collapsed car park and block of flats; a train explosion rescue; a coach incident; at height call out to a pylon and investigating confined space in short and long travel distance.
Mark Willis, Programme Lead – BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science and Out of Hospital Care, said: “We are delighted for the student paramedics to have this unique opportunity to be involved in a multi-disciplinary response, and train alongside the Urban Search and Rescue teams, Ambulance Hazardous Response teams and all the search and rescue providers.
"Although this was simulated, it will be a valuable learning experience for all of those involved and I am sure it's one that the students will never forget. Should they ever be called to put into practice the skills learned, then this can only assist in that process."
TWFRS’s chief officer Chris Lowther said he was proud to host the event and showcase the region’s abilities.
He added: “This event was all part of that planning, not just for now but looking to the future as we continue to work together to ensure the safety of our communities and that of the wider community.
“Today prepares us all for tomorrow’s unknown.”
Steve Gadsdon, USAR Capability Advisor - NFCC National Resilience Assurance Team, sent his thanks to the student paramedics who volunteered as casualties and Sunderland’s branch of the Salvation Army for providing welfare support during the sessions.
He added: “The whole event was put together by a multi-agency planning and delivery group, which ensured the event not only met the objectives of the USAR capability team but also exceeded the expectations of everyone who participated. Well done and thank you to everyone involved. Should they ever be called to put into practice the skills learned, then this can only assist in that process."
