Photo courtesy WXXV News 25.
On Saturday, May 12, 2018, the Acadian Ambulance Emergency Response Team, in cooperation with multiple Jackson County public safety agencies, conducted a drill focusing on the response to Mass Acts of Active Violence.
The training aims to save the lives of our children and those in our communities who may be subjected to great injury as a result of man-made devices or acts of God. The participating first responders are able to hone skills used during mass casualty events where interagency communication and coordination are necessary.
During the exercise, the Jackson County Sheriff’s office, Ocean Springs School District Police, Jackson County Emergency Response Team, Jackson County Office of Emergency Services, Central Jackson County Fire, Acadian Ambulance, Gulf Coast Trauma Region, Baptist Life Flight and Flight Care participated with the Ocean Springs High School Drama Club to bring lifesaving best practices and innovative techniques together and focus on responses to mass casualty incidents.
During the realistic event, more than 50 students simulated injuries sustained during an active shooter event. Law enforcement secured the scene and allowed for medics to quickly reach the injured. The event’s purpose is to bridge the time gap from the injury to lifesaving treatment. Historically, EMS and Fire have staged for long periods waiting for the “all clear” prior to entering a scene of this nature, as evidenced by other recent events. The goal is for various agencies to work together to organize and reduce the amount of time from injury to treatment.
