First Hour Training
Last week, the archival building was buzzing with energy as our island community gathered for a vital event: the First Hour Response Training. Organized by Anderson Island Prepares, this hands-on workshop brought together neighborhood coordinators, zone leaders, and other residents with one shared goal—strengthening our island’s resilience.
After a brief introduction, attendees broke into three groups to rotate through three specialized training stations. Each station tackled a critical piece of the puzzle for what to do immediately following a catastrophic event, like a major earthquake.
Station 1: The Critical First Hour
When disaster strikes, the first 60 minutes are the most crucial. This station focused on immediate situational awareness and safety protocols. Neighbors learned how to assess their surroundings, check on immediate hazards, and activate local response plans before outside help can arrive. On an island, self-reliance isn't just a trait; it’s our first line of defense.
Station 2: Clear Skies, Clear Airwaves
What happens when the power goes out and cell towers fail? We turn to the airwaves. At the communication station, participants got hands-on practice with GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) radios. Attendees practiced how to clearly report simulated incidents within their specific zones, ensuring that vital information flows seamlessly to coordinators even during a total grid collapse.
Station 3: Emergency First Aid
In a catastrophic event, medical resources will be stretched thin. The third station provided essential training in emergency first aid. From managing severe bleeding to prioritizing injuries, this session gave volunteers the practical skills and confidence needed to stabilize neighbors and save lives in those critical early moments.
"On an island, self-reliance isn't just a trait; it’s our first line of defense."
The Takeaway: Resilient and Ready
While the topics were serious, the atmosphere was anything but grim. The event was highly informative, interactive, and—dare we say—a lot of fun! More importantly, it brought our community closer together.
By empowering our neighborhood coordinators and zone leaders with these skills, Anderson Island is better prepared to face the unexpected. A huge thank you to Mary Beth Schrepferman for organizing the event, Chief Reynolds, Brian Ramey, Megan Arzola and Mary Beth Schrepferman for presenting, and for everyone who attended and helped make our island a safer, more resilient place to call home. Stay prepared, stay connected!
