MARQUETTE -- Over 500 people have come from all over Michigan to the U.P., all to hear about the latest in EMS first responder training at the 31st annual UP EMS Conference.

First responders go around from station to station, participating in a variety of hands-on rescue demonstrations.

"Simulated, hands-on activities where the EMS folks can work on patients, victims, mannequins, different simulated items, as if it were a real situation. And, they get the hands-on skills so they know how to do it in real life, when they need to," said Upper Peninsula EMS Director, Bob Struck said.

This year, the conference is focusing on sharing new technology with one another. They're emphasizing using computer programs to better understand the body and how it works.

And, they're using instruments with video, making it easier for first responders.

"Being able to network with other people from across the United States, even internationally, to learn what we're all trying to do. As a result, it's bringing information faster to us now. So, we can now adapt to it and use it on our environment," said an EMT Paramedic, Dawn St. Louis.

Most first responders who attended the conference work in small towns throughout Michigan.

"Volunteer EMS personnel will usually be the first person on the scene, and may be with the person for an hour or more until they get to the hospital. The more training they have, the more knowledge the EMS people have, the better chance someone has of surviving a bad situation," Struck added.

The conference will continue throughout the weekend, wrapping up on Sunday.