New digital technology strengthens training at Bocholt Fire and Rescue Academy

Training at the Bocholt Fire and Rescue Academy (FRB) will be even more realistic in the future. This is ensured by a digitally controllable simulation technology, which could be purchased within the framework of a funding program of the European Union.

Specialists are trained at the FRB to save lives in accidents and other emergency situations. That's around 140 emergency paramedics per year, plus 50 paramedics. Trainers are also trained here.

The quality of the training is now improving. Thanks to an EU grant, 80,000 euros in equipment and software have been purchased to simulate emergency situations more realistically.

The simulation technology includes an audio and video system that is used during training sessions. In a video-monitored practice room - officially called a "skills lab" - emergency care for patients is simulated on "actors" or dummy dolls. What to do in the event of a heart attack, what medications are needed and in what doses, what if blood pressure plummets? During the training, data, parameters and instructions can be imported into the actual situation by the instructors via iPad. The scenario is followed live by other training participants and later discussed professionally. FRB employee Jan Neukäter: "It's important to simulate realistically in the training courses so that rescue workers are not surprised by what awaits them in an emergency."

Some paperwork was necessary before the money for the grant landed in the account of the city of Bocholt. The application for funding through the European REACT funding program was initiated with the help of Ralf Krasenbrink and Nico Thebingsbuß from the city's IT department.

The EU funding program, which is worth millions, was set up in the wake of the COVID pandemic to strengthen digital training and teaching formats.