Bike EMS

This last Sunday, I had the opportunity to be a "Bike EMT". Basically, two of us followed waves of half-marathon runners, to ensure that they stayed healthy on the course, and to treat any injuries or illnesses that might happen to them on the course. Being one of the few EMTs in our company that rides a bike on a regular basis, I volunteered to be one of them. We also had my business partner out there on an ATV, with gear attached that we may need to use to stabilize someone in the event of a more severe illness or injury.

My bike fitted EMS-style. That red bag is oxygen and airway supplies. Medical gear is in the panniers.

 

Steve on the ATV

I had ridden the course the Tuesday before, just to make sure I knew the expected problem spots (fast downhills, slip areas, etc). It was all along the American River Bike Trail, with the exception of an area at the beginning of the course, and along one of the bridges. But they would be protected by traffic controls (courtesy the local PD), and concrete and steel barricades on the bridge).

Thankfully, it was relatively uneventful out on the course. A few folk with cramps from dehydration or electrolyte imbalance, one that I kept an eye on that was doing her first half-marathon and was going to finish no matter what (She needed fluids and calories to continue), and some other issues treated at our tent at the finish line.

At one point, Steve needed to stop for gas to top off the ATV, just in case. They don't expect people to just drive up in an ATV. Probably turned a few heads!

 

Not sure who created this memorial, or why, but it is simple and beautiful.

 

Interesting sign over the Walker Bridge