Training Helps Crews Respond To Emergencies on Mountain Bike Trails

WOODSTOCK, GA -- Woodstock's public safety officials and employees tasked with maintaining the city's recreational spaces took part in a training exercise at the Taylor Randahl Memorial Mountain Bike Trails at Olde Rope Mill Park.

The session, done in partnership with Outspokin' Bicycles, was held June 20, and was designed to better prepare police and fire crews for emergency responses on the paths by ensuring they are familiar with trails access and egress points.

“We have responded to heart attacks, broken bones, anaphylaxis shock and lost persons," said Woodstock Fire Chief Dave Soumas. "One key to a successful response is to have trained responders locate and extricate patients as quickly as possible. So it is important that we know the trails and the adjoining areas well.”

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Bicycles used in the training initiative were furnished by Outspokin, which is located on Sixes Road near the Blankets Creek Mountain Bike Trails, the southeast most popular mountain bike trail network.

Soumas stated Outspokin' owner Kevin Poske has supported the bike team’s efforts since its inception in 2010.

“He has provided both material support and advice while we were getting the team started,” the chief added.

Poske opened Out Spokin’ Bicycles in downtown Woodstock in 2003 and has a strong connection to the community.

“I hope to continue to support the first responders and the sport of mountain biking in this area," he added.

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Image via Woodstock Fire & Rescue Department