Ruud van Hattem from the Safety Region Gelderland-Zuid wanted realistic training mannequins for large-scale exercises involving gross and extreme violence (formerly TGB). FireWare contributed by providing several mannequins specifically designed for this purpose.
Lotus Victims and Mannequins
The exercise was meticulously planned. Lotus victims with extensive injuries were present, but for deceased victims with severe injuries, Ruud chose to use mannequins. This allowed the Lotus actors to focus on acting without having to lie “dead” for extended periods. Additionally, mannequins can be used multiple times, Ruud explained.
Severe Injuries
The mannequins were impressively realistic: a woman with a gunshot wound to the chest, a man with a gunshot wound to the head, a man with an amputated arm and an open fracture, and a man without legs. Not a cheerful sight, but that was precisely the intention. The realism helped participants get into the right mindset, which is essential for an effective exercise. The mannequins significantly contributed to the overall scenario.
Confronting but Effective
The participants’ reactions were positive afterward. The realism was confronting and sometimes shocking, but it ensured everyone immediately adopted the right mindset. Ruud emphasized the importance of respecting participants’ mental boundaries. Therefore, a warning was communicated in advance via the exercise coordinators. This gave participants the option to skip the exercise if they felt uncomfortable. Fortunately, this was not necessary, and the experience remained positive and educational for all involved.
Versatile Usage
After the final exercise, one of the mannequins was used in command training. This took place in a scenario set in the drug scene. Here too, the realism of the mannequin helped participants adopt the right mindset.
Props, Not Dragging Mannequins
The mannequins were only used as deceased victims. They are intended to be identified as deceased during triage, allowing the focus to remain on T1 and T2 victims. Dragging or other heavy use is not intended; the mannequins are specifically designed as props.
Availability
The mannequins are currently in storage, awaiting a new series of exercises. At the end of 2025, they will be available in the exercise catalog of Safety Region Gelderland-Zuid, after which all stations can request them for their own exercises.
