<p><strong>COLUMBIA —</strong> Columbia State Community College's emergency medical services students earned top honors at the fourth annual "Battle of the Smokies" competition held March 4 in Sevierville, Tennessee, according to the college. Over 25 teams from community colleges, county EMS services, and mine rescue crews across the state competed in the event. Columbia State's Advanced Life Support division team placed first and fourth, while its Basic Life Support teams took first and second place.</p><p>The competition presented a complex scenario in which students had to treat multiple patients following a utility vehicle crash into a telephone pole. The simulated emergency tested students' ability to quickly assess patients, perform medical interventions, and maintain situational awareness under realistic hazard conditions. "These AEMT and paramedic students performed at an incredible level of skill and showcased their ability to think critically in a very complex situation," said Gregory S. Johnson, Columbia State's EMS program director.</p>