Forty-six law enforcement officers from the Virgin Islands completed the Emergency Care and Treatment (ECAT) Advanced First Aid Training Course. Photo: GIS

Mr Peter C. Burgess, PAHO/WHO Regional Trainer led the Emergency Care and Treatment (ECAT) Advanced First Aid Training Course in the Virgin Islands from April 13 to 24, 2026. Photo: Facebook

This course, aimed at strengthening these individuals’ response capacity, was facilitated by the Virgin Islands Public Service Learning Institute (VIPSLI) as part of an ongoing training programme for law enforcement and border control agencies. 

Following the training course held from April 13 to 24, 2026, the officers are now equipped to effectively manage medical emergencies until professional assistance arrives.

‘The know-how to respond in a crisis is critical’- course lead

The course was delivered in two one-week cohorts, and the comprehensive programme focused on practical, hands-on training. Participants were exposed to key areas including emergency site protocols, basic human anatomy, injury assessment and treatment, patient handling techniques, and real-time problem-solving in high-pressure situations.

The course was led by Mr Peter C. Burgess, PAHO/WHO Regional Trainer - Subject Area Expert and former member of the Barbados Defence Force with more than 26 years of experience. 

Following the completion of the training, Mr Burgess said early intervention can make the difference between life and death. 

“A great deal can be done to save a life before Emergency Medical Services arrive, because the first response often comes from those already present. In island communities, where there may be challenges in dispatching medical teams quickly, having the know-how to respond in a crisis is critical. This knowledge must be shared so that we can close the gap between the moment an emergency occurs and the arrival of professional medical assistance.”

Participants

The following public officers completed the course successfully: Adrian Stoutt, Aldone Denton, Annecha Graham, Beyonce DaBreo, Calvin Mactavious, Clementina Lewis, Curtis Brown, Cuthbert Robinson, David Shondel, Delma Tavernier, Donaldson Layne, Edgar Hall, Eldo Davis, Enrico Bowens, Gary Hillhous, Javier Hodge, Jerald Fornord, Jermaine Brewley, Juilet Christopher, Kenroy Palmer, Larry Larocque, Leesean Smith, Lisbon Browne, Mandel Jimmy, Myron Hastings, Nadine Marshall, Nicholas Cooper, Raynald Williams, Roselyn Alfred-Robin, Roy Thomas, Samory Romney, Shakhoy Smith, Shemika Letteen, Shenell Brewley, Sherica Thomas, Sheriss Telemaque, Shawn Rymer, Sienna Peters, Ted Thomas, Teriel William, Tiffany Herbert Fahie, Travon Gumbs, Trevor Chalwell, Tyrese Steves, Tyrone Varlack, and Winston Farrington Jr.