It’s comforting to know that the above statement is true, when it comes to Emergency Medical Services. May 16th through May 22nd, is National EMS Week, set aside to honor EMS Professionals, as well as afford them the opportunity to publicize safety and connect with the public that they serve. EMS Week is sponsored by the American College of Emergency Physicians, who depend on the expertise offered by first responders, paramedics, EMT’s, firefighters, and police: those who serve on the “front line” of prehospital treatment.
In many communities this week, these providers will be giving tours of ambulances, and holding several projects that promote safety. From toddlers to senior citizens, it is helpful for potential patients to see just what is involved in being transported by ambulance. Many cities and communities will be featuring those who furnish emergency services by explaining about their equipment and vehicles such as ambulances, firetrucks, and medical helicopters.
May 19th is set aside as EMS Day for Children, focusing on safety and preventing injury. Because children react differently to illness and injury, and have a different set of emotional and physical needs, activities planned exclusively for them is very important. What child wouldn’t enjoy getting to see an ambulance, fire truck, or police car up-close?
Anytime, anywhere, they are there! At sporting events, you will see an EMS staff standing by, just in case of an injury. They are present at schools and businesses, teaching CPR classes. They’re even on a Facebook Page (National E.M.S.) and Twitter, where they share stories and recognize heroes.
EMS teams consist of EMT’s, those who have been certified in Basic Life Support (BLS), and Paramedics, (the highest level of prehospital medical training), and who have been trained in Advanced Life Support (ALS). When you call with a medical emergency, it is comforting to know that they will come to your door. People who live in rural areas depend on their rapid response. It eases our minds to know that they will transfer our loved one to a different facility, whether it is due to a critical care need, a rehab center, or nursing home if necessary.
In times of tragedy, you will always see these unsung heroes doing all they can to save lives. Whether it’s natural disasters, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, or accidents – the one thing we can count on is they are there…anytime, anywhere!