Gainesville is gearing up for one of the most unique and adrenaline-pumping events of the year. ShandsCair Critical Care Transport Program, in a powerhouse partnership with Huddys Escape, has officially announced the 3rd Annual EMS Escape Room Challenge.
After two years of massive success and sold-out slots, the 2026 challenge is shaping up to be the most immersive and high-stakes version yet. This free event has quickly become a “must-do” on the Gainesville calendar for first responders, RNs, and EMS professionals looking for the ultimate team-building experience.
A Masterclass in Scenario Design
What sets this challenge apart from a typical escape room is the expertise behind its creation. The owners of Huddys Escape, Adam Tencza and Leigh Zeedyk, have lent their world-class game design and puzzle-creation skills to build a hyper-realistic environment.
The scenarios are hosted at the Kirkpatrick Center – Santa Fe College EMS Program, utilizing their incredible, state-of-the-art scenario facilities. This collaboration allows participants to step out of the hospital or ambulance and into a controlled, high-fidelity environment that tests every ounce of their professional knowledge.
Unity Through Competition
The heart of the event lies in the passion of Todd Brooks, Chief Flight Nurse at ShandsCair. Brooks’ vision for the challenge is rooted in a desire to unite the local medical community. While the competition is fierce, the primary goal is collaborative fun—bringing together teams from EDs, 911 response units, and transport services to sharpen their communication and clinical skills in an exciting, non-traditional setting.
What to Expect: The Secret Scenario
In true Huddys Escape fashion, the specific details of the mission remain top secret until you walk through the door. Every team will face the exact same scenario, requiring mastery of skills used in 911 response, ambulance transport, and emergency department environments, including ACLS and PALS protocols.
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours on-site.
- Team Size: Maximum of four (4) members.
- Eligibility: Professional teams (Paramedics, EMTs, RNs) and Student teams (currently enrolled in the same paramedic program).
Prizes and Glory
While the camaraderie is the biggest draw, there are high-stakes rewards on the line:
- 1st Place Professional Team: The prestigious ShandsCair Plaque.
- 1st Place Student Team: $250.
- 2nd Place Student Team: $100.
- Bonus: All participating teams receive a half-off discount for the Advances in Critical Care Conference on May 22, 2026.
Why Huddys Escape is a Gainesville Staple
Huddys Escape continues to prove why they are frequently cited in “Best of Gainesville” lists. Beyond being a top-tier destination for entertainment and puzzles, their generosity and support for the local community—specifically our frontline heroes—shines through in events like this. When looking for things to do in Gainesville that combine intellectual challenge with community spirit, Huddys Escape remains the gold standard.
How to Register on EMS Escape Room Challenge?
The event will be held over two days, May 18 and 19, 2026. Because of the high level of detail in each run, team slots are strictly limited. To secure your spot in what is arguably the most exciting professional event in North Central Florida, registration is simple. Email Todd Brooks at todd.brooks@ufhealth.org to reserve your slot today.
