On Saturday July 20th, members of the Silver Spring Fire Department provided EMS standby for the youth football camp held by Moise Fokou of the NFL's Tennessee Titans. The camp took place at the Blair High Schools athletic complex in Silver Spring. EMS Lt. Susan Myatt and I were on location from 0730 to 1430 hours.

The day was mostly cloudy and hot with temperatures hovering between 95° and 98°F; we knew dehydration would be the number one reason anyone would need our assistance. As a new member I discovered many things from the experience. First, I found myself looking around keeping an eye out for anything and anyone. I was developing my situational awareness skills as well as gaining knowledge from Lt. Myatt.

I started thinking of different scenarios and so I asked Lt. Myatt countless questions so I would feel a little more confident in assisting her. We noticed how the kids (aging from roughly 10-15) warmed up and how their day started, and how many didn't go to the restrooms. The staff and NFL players were very helpful and nice, and would help kids find their way to us when needed.

Our first patient didn't suffer from dehydration instead he somehow took about 5mm of skin from his thumb. He was bleeding a good amount but he kept calm as Lt. Myatt took care of his wound. The rest of the kids that needed attention were very dehydrated and cramped up. We applied cold packs and gave out electrolyte replacement drinks.

My developing sense of awareness - for my personal safety and for potential patients - helped me identify which individuals to keep an eye out for more than others. That way we were ready should anything happen and we needed to assist.

Not only did we meet NFL players such as #53 Moise Fokou with Tennessee Titans and sponsor of the event and #56 Adrian Moten with Cleveland Browns, they did really well with the kids and put together a great event. The overall experience was very fulfilling and informative. I definitely recommend new members and all members of SSFD to attend events such as this one.