Beaufort County Educators Acquire Lifesaving Skills in Training

Educators in Beaufort County, South Carolina, are enhancing their emergency preparedness by participating in first responder training. A group of approximately ten staff members, including teachers and after-school caretakers from the Beaufort County School District, gathered at Lady’s Island Middle School to gain critical lifesaving skills.

Latoya Johnson, an after-school teacher, expressed her motivation for attending the training: “Just to, you know, have the knowledge of CPR and drug training and blood. Just to be informed about it.” Participants are learning how to act effectively in medical emergencies, focusing on essential areas such as administering CPR, recognizing the use of Narcan for opioid overdoses, and applying tourniquets to control bleeding.

Training Focused on Real-Life Emergencies

The first responder training program, sponsored by the Burton Fire District, has been offered in Beaufort County schools for the past two and a half years. According to Dan Byrne from the Burton Fire District, the training addresses relevant concerns for educators. “The average response time in the United States for fire and EMS is seven minutes,” he noted, adding that in Beaufort County, the response can take an average of twelve minutes.

Byrne emphasized the importance of community training, stating, “Everyday citizens can provide potentially lifesaving medical attention until emergency crews can arrive on scene.” The program encourages participants to view themselves as first responders in any emergency situation, whether in a school, church, or home.

The curriculum includes Narcan training, CPR certification, and practical demonstrations of tourniquet application. According to Byrne, research into mass trauma events revealed that many lives are saved by civilians equipped with the right knowledge and skills. “That’s what we’re applying here to the community,” he said. “We want to give our community the knowledge and skills that should someone have an emergency, you can respond, start that care, and give us time to get there and actually make a difference.”

Community Engagement and Future Opportunities

Many educators expressed mixed feelings about their abilities in emergency situations. Johnson admitted, “I do feel more confident with performing any CPR. Maybe a little scared, but I will jump in if I would have to.” This training fosters confidence and preparedness among participants, enabling them to act decisively in critical moments.

The Burton Fire District welcomes anyone interested in learning these vital skills, provided there is a group of at least five people to register. In partnership with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the fire district also offers churches a complimentary Jacob kit, known as a stop the bleed kit, when they complete the training program. Participants will also receive a free tourniquet to enhance their readiness for emergencies.

For those interested in enrolling in the first responder training, inquiries can be directed to the Burton Fire District via social media or their official website. By equipping educators and community members with lifesaving knowledge, the program aims to strengthen the overall safety and health of the Beaufort County community.