THE Guyana Association of Private Security Organisations (GAPSO) conducted a one-day Basic First Aid course for security officers so they can respond appropriately to basic medical emergencies.

The training course was hosted at the John Fernandes Boardroom, Georgetown.
Twenty-six officers participated in the training course that represented GAPSO members, namely, Banks DIH, Bank of Guyana, Security Alliance, Kalibur Security, Federal Management Systems, John Fernandes Ltd, Integrated Security Services, Sentinel Security, Secure Security and Management Services, MMC Security Force and Guyoil.
The course was delivered by Denzil Hernandez, who is a professional nurse at the Davis Memorial Hospital, and holds an Associate Degree in Occupational Health and Safety.
Speaking about the initiative, Public Relations Officer, Ghalee Khan said that it was conducted as a comprehensive step to promote increased standards and professionalism of private security.

MEDICAL EMERGENCIES
He added that security officers are the first on the scene of most medical emergencies and should be able to respond effectively, which may save the lives of the people they are protecting.
Khan said the course was also a forum to enable participants to acquire the knowledge, skills and confidence to give immediate care to a suddenly injured person until more advanced medical personnel arrive.
Yesterday’s training consisted of a combination of instructions using visual resources and slides and demonstrations and practical hands-on activities.
Participants were given the opportunity to practise techniques related to first aid, such as how to put a victim in the recovery position, how to administer CPR, how to deal with choking and how to apply bandages.
GAPSO has long worked to increase the standards and professionalism in the private security industry. Private security officers play a critical and ever-increasing role in keeping their community safe, Khan stated.