A virtual and augmented reality platform for the training of first responders of the ambulance bus

Abstract

AmBus is a bus-sized ambulance that EMS personnel utilize during large-scale emergencies. Although EMS personnel receive annual training, evidence shows current training efforts leave some personnel unfamiliar with the AmBus system and unprepared to respond to an emergency. This work presents a novel interactive training application, utilizing emerging technologies in virtual and augmented reality, that can be delivered remotely to the distributed EMS personnel before they assemble, or as they are assembling. Our initial findings show that such an application can better prepare first responders to be as effective as possible in using the life-saving features of the AmBus. The methodology described in this work can be expanded to include other first responders, and, ultimately, lives may be saved because personnel are better prepared.