Armstrong BLS Training Coordinator Larry LeDoux instructing the occupational violence awareness and self-defense course

Violence in healthcare is a topic which is seldom discussed yet a real threat in caring for patients. After the recent assault on a Boston EMS provider, Armstrong Ambulance Service developed an occupational violence awareness and self-defense course that focuses on providing EMS responders and Firefighters the skills needed to defend themselves in the field. The training course addresses on-scene safety and security, including recognizing cues given by patients or bystanders that indicate the possibility of an assault or danger as well as appropriate defensive tactics providers can take and the legal obligations of their roles.

The first of these training courses was held on Tuesday, July 30th at the Saugus Public Safety Building. Armstrong Ambulance Service clinicians, Saugus Firefighters and other local first responder agencies gathered to share personal experiences they’ve encountered while on the job and discuss best practices to not only keep the public safe but ensure their own safety and well-being.

This awareness is a reminder of how regularly EMS providers, fire personnel and other healthcare providers insert themselves into potentially volatile situations and the unforeseen dangers of their professions.

Armstrong Ambulance Service plans to hold more situational awareness and self-defense education in the upcoming weeks.

Media coverage of the Saugus training can be found below

Channel 7 News:
https://whdh.com/news/this-is-a-dangerous-job-ambulance-company-teaches-first-responders-self-defense-in-saugus/

Boston Herald Article:
https://www.bostonherald.com/2019/07/29/attacks-on-emts-prompt-self-defense-class/