<p>COLUMBIA — Emergency medical services students from Columbia State Community College returned from Sevierville in March with armloads of hardware, winning first and fourth place in the Student Advanced Life Support division and first and second place in the Student Basic Life Support division at the fourth annual Battle of the Smokies competition, according to Columbia State.</p><p>More than 25 teams from community colleges, county EMS agencies, and mine rescue crews competed in the March 4 event. Teams were scored on how quickly they assessed patients, the quality of medical interventions, and how fast they readied patients for transport — all in a simulated crash scenario involving smoke and other hazards. Program Director Gregory S. Johnson said the students performed at an exceptional level and demonstrated the critical thinking required in real emergencies. Competitors also earned eight hours of continuing education credit through the event.</p><p>The wins are a testament to the quality of training available right here on Hampshire Pike. Columbia State's EMS program is producing first responders who are ready to serve Maury County and the region from day one. For more on the program, visit ColumbiaState.edu.</p>