Emergency crews in Southwest Virginia learn from Orlando nightclub shooting responders

ROANOKE WSLS 10) - Emergency workers in southwest Virginia are learning about how to handle emergencies from those who responded to the Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando.

More than 40 people were killed and 50 hurt in the attack.

The presentation featured two speakers, one on the mental health crisis response during and immediately following the event, the other focused on the mass fatality and family assistance center response.

Executive Director of the Near Southwest Preparedness Alliance Craig Camidge said, "The behavioral health response after an event like that. You have to imagine when 50 people are shot and killed in an event this high profile families come to the area and they are all grieving and they all need behavioral health support and how did you set up the infrastructure to deliver the support to the family.

In April, the Near Southwest Preparedness Alliance will bring an expert to talk about lessons learned from the Boston Marathon bombing in 2013.