First responders from across Sioux County will have the opportunity to sharpen critical, real-world skills during Sioux County EMS Day, scheduled for Saturday, March 21st at Dordt University’s Ag Center in Sioux Center.
The free training event runs from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and combines classroom instruction with hands-on labs designed to help EMTs and EMS personnel prepare for emergencies they may not encounter frequently in rural settings.
Sioux County Emergency Management Coordinator Ryan De Kruyf says the timing of this year’s training is intentional, with many EMS licenses coming up for renewal soon.
One of the key components is an airway management lab using pig lungs donated by Perdue Farms, allowing participants to practice advanced airway techniques in a realistic environment. A trauma skills lab will use pork shoulders prepared to simulate gunshot wounds, helping responders understand injury patterns and treatment techniques.
De Kruyf says using animal tissue helps simulate real injuries responders may encounter in the field.
Additional training sessions will focus on pediatric trauma and illness, trauma caused by high-force impacts such as vehicle crashes, and the use of specialized equipment like pelvic binders. Each Sioux County EMS department represented will also receive a pelvic binder to take back to their department.
De Kruyf says continued hands-on training is especially important in rural areas.
The training is open to EMS and first responders only and is offered free of charge, with lunch provided.
