Cadets from across the Island recently put their first aid skills to the test in Langford.
More than 40 cadets flocked to Belmont secondary for a competition hosted by the Langford-based 848 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron.
The competition saw Cadet Chief Petty Officer Second Class Erin Lawless, representing the 263 Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps, named top team captain for senior teams. Senior cadets from 263 RCSCC and 848 RCACS tied for third place honours overall.
But those weren't the only awards picked up by the West Shore squads. The 263 RCSCC's junior team also nabbed second place at the competition.
In the junior standings, a team from Powell River took top spot while a team from Duncan came in third. For the seniors, Comox came out on top, followed by a team from Duncan in second place.
Corps and squadrons were allowed to enter one junior (under the age of 15) and one senior team in the Feb. 18 competition.
B次元官网网址淭he first aid competition, along with the marksmanship, winter biathlon, band, drill team, and orienteering competitions are integral when it comes to cadet training," said Capt. Mandart Chan, commanding officer of the 848 RCACS. "Along with our mandatory training program, these events allow our cadets to compete in a friendly and supportive environment. They also allow our cadets to use their leadership skills in a practical manner."
Competing in teams of four, cadets had to complete both a written examination and a practical test. In these practical exams, realistic injuries are recreated on real people to simulate a scenario. Each team must respond with skill and speed while assessing their victims' injuries and any apparent hazards to team members. Teams are scored on how well they execute established emergency scene management procedures and protocols.
But cadets have to use their time wisely, as points are also deducted for delays, unnecessary treatment or activity, and neglect or aggravation of injuries. The only questions cadets can ask examiners is about their victims' vital signs, since those cannot be simulated.
St. John's Ambulance first aid training is provided free to all cadets who wish to participate and is a prerequisite for some advanced training.
Chan, who is also the Unit Public Affairs Representative for the Regional Cadet Support Unit, added, "youth should join the Canadian cadet program for the leadership, adventure, variety of activities and fun.B次元官网网址�
Belmont teen prepares to sail away
Another West Shore cadet is making waves.
Belmont secondary Grade 11 student Matthew Brabant, a member of the 848 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron, was selected to participate in a five-day familiarization sail.
He boarded HMCS Yellowknife last Saturday and is expected to land back on the West Shore this weekend. Yellowknife is a Kingston-class coastal defence vessel based out of CFB Esquimalt and has served the Canadian Forces since 1998.
