The teachers in the Adventure Tourism program at the Gaspé Campus experienced quite an emergency simulation on the banks of the York River, at the Écluse salmon pool along Highway 198 between Gaspé and Murdochville.
This year's simulation involved a rescue situation on the river. For the purposes of the practice, several individuals enjoying an activity on the river were caught on the other bank, near some rapids. Not only did the exercise incorporate rescue-related notions, one of the individuals was suffering from hypothermia, another had a dislocated shoulder while yet another had died. Consequently, rescuers had to make a number of decisions What would be the best way to proceed? Who required assistance first?
The Adventure Tourism Department was able to count on the much-appreciated cooperation of the Sûreté du Québec, Ambulances Porlier and the Ville de Gaspé Fire Department. The entire practice was carefully planned to make it as realistic as possible. Furthermore, College staff in relevant departments also played roles in the crisis management process.
Twice a year, the Adventure Tourism Department tests its teachers in order to requalify for rescue and first-aid certification. Although the standard requires first-aid certificate holders to take a refresher course every three years, the Department organises six days of upgrading activities dealing with these concepts over the course of the three year-period.
It is important to point out that the Adventure Tourism program is committed to the highest quality standards in the education of its students, who acquire recognised certifications as part of their program.
