"Getting involved" is what we as volunteers do. We have our fingers in numerous activities throughout Golden and come in touch with thousands of people every year. Many are tourists, but many are also our own citizens.

Volunteers show up everywhere; the farmers market, visitor center, museums, art galleries, downtown events and act as ambassadors as we walk down the street.

Keeping on top of things is a must for us and that is why Carol Ann Bowles, Volunteer Coordinator for the Golden Visitor Center contacted Cris Brewer, Division Chief of Training and Safety, of the Golden Fire Department.

People who live or visit Golden enjoy many activities indoors and especially outdoors and have a tendency to go "head first" into fun and sometimes forget about health and safety. As volunteers, we have seen a lot of the results; from near drowning, scrapes, falls, altitude sickness, dehydration and people suffering from chest pain. Even though the Golden Fire Department is right downtown, it's important to know what to do until help arrives on the scene.

Cris Brewer held a training class April 3 rd at the Golden Chamber for the volunteers. He taught us how to recognize trouble, what to do and especially what NOT to do while waiting those few minutes until help arrives.

We all think we know what to do but don't know HOW we'll react when events happen. Keeping calm, knowing how to recognize an injury that can be fixed with a band-aid or recognizing a real crisis that needs professional help are key factors in making the right decision.

We want to give a big "Thank You" to Cris Brewer and the Golden Fire Department for sharing their knowledge and keeping us all just a little safer.

Diane Pasquarelli

Golden Volunteer