This comprehensive course prepares EMTs to effectively respond to mass casualty incidents (MCIs) through a combination of interactive lecture and a realistic tabletop exercise. Designed to build both foundational knowledge and practical decision-making skills, the course emphasizes scene organization, triage, communication, and resource management in chaotic, high-stakes environments.
In the lecture portion, participants will learn the core concepts of MCI response, including the Incident Command System (ICS), START triage, and strategies for managing limited resources during large-scale emergencies. The session will cover various MCI scenarios, from multi-vehicle collisions to natural disasters and active threats.
The course culminates in a facilitated tabletop exercise that challenges participants to apply what they’ve learned in a simulated MCI scenario, working collaboratively to triage patients, manage scene logistics, and coordinate with other responders.
Key Topics Include:
- Defining an MCI and levels of response
- The role of EMTs in the Incident Command System (ICS)
- START triage and patient categorization
- Resource prioritization and transport coordination
- Communication strategies during chaos
- Real-world case reviews and lessons learned
- Tabletop scenario: command, triage, and operational decision-making
This course is ideal for EMTs of all experience levels who want to be better prepared for large-scale incidents and improve their ability to respond calmly and effectively under pressure.