US Embassy holds second Medical First Responder Seminar in Barishal 

The US Embassy Dhaka has conducted its second Medical First Responder Seminar (MFRS) of 2020 in Amtali in Barishal from February 23 – 27. 

Thirty officers from seven Fire Service and Civil Defence (FSCD) stations throughout Barishal Division engaged in a variety of activities during the five-day seminar including hands-on practical exercises, according to a press release. 

Additionally, all attendees received an emergency first-aid kit with medical supplies sourced from Bangladeshi companies. 

The MFRS is one of the many initiatives of the US government to promote greater cooperation, dialogue, and mutual understanding between Bangladesh and the United States, encouraging a strong partnership and helping to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific region. 

Such seminars aim to strengthen the capacity of FSCD officers, who serve as first responders during medical emergency and natural disaster situations. It also highlights the US government's commitment to Bangladesh's national security. 

Two of the three instructors for this seminar participated in a similar MFRS for Bangladesh Police in January last.   

They helped to conduct this week's seminar as part of "train the trainer" initiative aimed at increasing Bangladesh security services' capacity to train and equip their own personnel.  

One such participant-cum-trainer applied his new skills shortly after completing the January seminar when he responded to what he assessed to be a grease or gas fire and correctly smothered the fire using nearby sand.  

In addition to strengthening the capacity of security services to respond to medical emergencies and natural disasters, the Embassy's Medical First Responder Seminars provide a unique opportunity for training integration by facilitating the exchange of ideas and best practices between Bangladeshi security and civil service branches.