The Blue Ridge Volunteer Rescue Squad hosts bi-monthly training that corresponds with its regular business meeting.  This training is an excellent opportunity for members to become more familiar with the equipment, discuss squad operations, and ask questions in an intimate and cooperative environment.  The squad also regularly participates in county and regional training opportunities. 

Trauma Training:  The Blue Ridge Rescue Squad recently attended a training program hosted by Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital.  The presentation included an overview of penetrating thoracic injuries and the proper identification and treatment of pneumothoraces and hemothoraces.  The majority of the presentation was made by Dr. Allan S. Philp M.D., Chief of the Trauma Surgery Service.  Following the interactive lecture, our members had an opportunity to practice their skills in a needle-decompression session.

Stroke Training:  Members of the Blue Ridge Rescue Squad recently participated in a Stroke Alert training course taught by the Life-Guard crew of Carilion Clinic and hosted by Botetourt County.  The course covered recognition and evaluation of patients suffering from the symptoms of a stroke or CVA, treatment options, special considerations, and discussed Carilion's new Stroke Alert Program. 

Water Rescue Training:  Members of the Blue Ridge Volunteer Rescue Squad participated in a Water Rescue Operations course over three days in the fall of 2009.  These members are also a part of the Botetourt County Special Operations Team and Botetourt’s new Water Rescue Team.  The training included instruction in, among other areas, rescuer survival, victim access and extrication, water-based immobilization, ropes, submerged structure access, and boat operations.  The team looks forward to continuing and expending their training in the spring.