Rescuers Need ‘Actors’ to Help Simulate Emergency

The Sierra Madre Fire Department and Sierra Madre Search and Rescue Team will be presenting a joint emergency training program starting today, July 15, 2011. Today’s informational session will be the first of two, with the second session slated for Saturday, July 16. 

Billed as a way to “help those who will help you in an emergency,” the sessions will focus on fostering preparedness for possible large-scale emergencies such as earthquakes and wildfires.

Area residents who choose to attend one of the information sessions will then take part in a training session that will simulate an incident that may result in mass civilian casualties. That simulation will take place from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Aug. 13.

To aid in creating this simulated disaster, the SMFD and Search and Rescue Team are seeking 50 to 100 volunteers of any age to help with this training exercise. Children may also assist in the training exercise, as long as an adult accompanies them.

From the SMFD/SMSR joint announcement:

You would be participating as an “actor” simulating injury requiring evacuation, and or medical assistance. Lunch will be provided to all who attend this training exercise.

If you would like to have some fun – and at the same time help your local emergency services agencies prepare to “help you” if necessary during a major incident; please attend one of the information meetings to be held at the Sierra Madre Fire Department, located at 242 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre, CA 91024.

You only need to attend one of the information meetings. All questions regarding participation in this event will be answered at this time. 

Information Meetings:

1. Friday July 15th, 2011  |  Time 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

2. Saturday July 16th, 2011  |  Time 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.