Scouts of Troop 97 in Londonderry Township recently gathered for a weekend of first aid and CPR training.
First aid skills are reinforced at every level of a Scout's journey. A Tenderfoot Scout learns how to properly treat simple cuts, blisters, insect bites, and minor burns. Advancement to the Second Class rank is dependent in part upon understanding how to treat emergency cases, such as someone who has stopped breathing, has had a stroke, or has severe bleeding, a puncture wound, or an animal bite. To obtain the First Class rank, a Scout must successfully demonstrate bandaging injuries on the head, upper arm, and collarbone; demonstrate how to transport a victim with a sprained ankle at least 25 yards; and explain the five most common signals of a heart attack. An Eagle Scout must have earned the First Aid Merit Badge.
At the recent training weekend, Londonderry Fire Company firefighter and EMT Bill Zerphy, Deputy Fire Chief Tim Nissley, and Ambulance Chief Chris Judy, along with Assistant Scoutmaster Mike Harris, each ran a station and rotated Scout patrols to give youths and adult leaders ample opportunities to practice techniques. Scouts demonstrated how to properly treat cuts and sprains with bandages and splints. They learned how to construct a stretcher from items commonly found on a wilderness campout, such as tarps and tent poles, and how to safely lift and transport a victim. They were challenged to triage a scene with multiple injuries to practice evaluation and prioritization of cases. Zerphy taught CPR using training videos and mannequins, allowing each participant hands-on application of chest compressions. During the weekend, 14 Scouts received CPR certification or recertification.
Troop 97 is sponsored by the Londonderry Fire Company. For information about the troop, contact Ted Pauley at tszm@hotmail.com.
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