Success in first aid contest

Wing first aid teams from 1406 (Spalding) Squadron enjoyed several successes when they competed at a regional competition.

Both teams were placed second in their respective categories, taking them through to represent the central and east region at the corps competition.

The young adults team and the youth team came second to the two teams entered by South East Midlands wing.

For the individual competition, the first aiders were challenged with a scenario whereby the casualty had fallen off of a stepladder resulting in multiple fractures requiring treatment for shock and the use of several slings in order to immobilise the injuries.

The team scenario tested the competitors in dealing with a conflict.

Four casualties had been injured during an argument, leaving the competitors to treat an unconscious casualty with a blow to the head, a conscious casualty with a suspected spinal injury, lacerations and fractures and a bystander filming the situation.

Civilian instructor for the 1406 Squadron Jon Hilton said: “This scenario would have challenged many professionals however the weeks of training and preparation paid off as both teams handled the scenarios calmly, confidently and competently.”

First aid competitions use actors and casualty simulation make up to try and make the scenario as realistic as possible, testing the cadets to their limits.

Scenarios allow cadets to put into practice what they have learned previously and also see what a real life situation may involve.

Mr Hilton added: “Competitions present excellent opportunities to develop cadets’ leadership, teamwork and self-confidence as well as reinforcing the first aid techniques learnt in the classroom, which provides opportunity for achievement and recognition.”