PIMA MEDICAL INSTITUTE STUDENTS RECOGNIZED BY FIRE DEPARTMENT
Colorado Springs, CO– Students Play Role Of Victims To Help FD Train For Disaster Response

Students and staff at Pima Medical Institute, 370 Printers Parkway in Colorado Springs were recently recognized by the Colorado Springs Fire Department for playing the role of disaster victims in the training of local emergency personnel.

The two-week exercise included a long disaster response exercise conducted by the city’s fire department and other local agencies. Students became “casualties” in a variety of disaster scenarios ranging from bus accidents and structure fires, to hazardous material spills.

The “victims” were instructed how to act the part of someone who had actually sustained injuries. They also looked the part as well, as volunteers were made up with various materials such as plastics, putties, charcoal and dyes to give the appearance of authentic-looking injuries.

Fire Department personnel said that realism in disaster scenarios such as this one with PMI students are crucial in the training of first responders and other emergency personnel. Other than actual emergencies, the staged exercises are the best method of training and evaluating our personnel.

“Students from all three sessions, as well as some staff members, participated and were able to gain a new perspective, as well as a sense of appreciation for those who put their lives on the line for us every day,” said Karen McGrath, campus director. “At Pima Medical Institute we want our students to not only excel with their studies, we encourage them to become involved in the community in which they work and live. It was a great experience for all involved.”

The Colorado campus offers programs for Dental Assistant, Medical Administrative Assistant, Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Technician and Veterinary Assistant.

PMI is one of the premier medical career colleges in the western United States. The privately owned, accredited school provides students with a well-rounded education embracing theoretical classroom studies, as well as on-site training in allied health facilities within the community. This gives the student the opportunity to function in a working environment.

PMI has been serving students since 1972, with campuses in: Albuquerque, New Mexico; Mesa and Tucson, AZ; Chula Vista, CA, Seattle and Renton, WA; Las Vegas, NV; as well as Colorado Springs and Denver. Additional information is available by calling their toll free number, 888-442-5998 or online at http://www.pmi.edu.