The Cambridge Valley Rescue Squad is seeking volunteers to serve as drivers and emergency care providers. Now is a great time to consider volunteering with the CVRS since a basic emergency medical technician (EMT-B) class is starting in October and will be hosted at the CVRS station in Cambridge.
The EMT-B is trained in basic life support skills according to a New York State certification program administered by the Department of Health. Skills include establishing scene and crew safety, basic patient assessment, basic airway management, bleeding control, emergency first aid, splinting and immobilization, and CPR among others. The course runs from October 2011 through March 2012.
Will Moses, Assistant Captain at CVRS, has recently completed training to become a New York State Department of Health Instructor Coordinator and he will be the course instructor. He notes, “EMS in general and this course in particular are great opportunities to enrich yourself, serve your community and potentially lead to a new career.” Moses also notes that the closure of Mary McClellan Hospital has led to an increased need for EMS providers due to extended transport times to other area hospitals. The course is open to anyone over the age of eighteen including those who are considering working or volunteering with neighboring rescue squads. All area EMS agencies are in need of volunteers.
Meaghan Wilkins is a recently certified EMT-B who volunteers with the CVRS. “I joined the squad in September of 2010 and began taking the EMT-B course. I was impressed by the thorough classroom teaching and the hands-on learning I gained through the lab instruction. The willingness of all the senior members I worked with to teach and assist me in my training both in class and on calls was beneficial to my success in the EMT-B course and proficiency providing patient care in the ambulance. I encourage anyone who has the desire to make a difference in the community to consider joining the Cambridge Valley Rescue Squad and begin their training as an Emergency Medical provider.“, said Wilkins.
The CVRS Junior Squad is also looking for new members. The Junior Squad is an opportunity for teenagers over the age of fourteen to become actively involved in EMS. The Junior Squad members meet regularly, attend trainings and also help provide patient care along-side certified providers and mentors in the CVRS.
Those interested in either volunteering with the CVRS and/or enrolling in the EMT-B course should contact the station at 518 677 8211 or by email at info@cambridgeems.com.
Scott Sacala and Larry DuPont practice skills using a training manikin at the Cambridge Valley Rescue Squad (CVRS). The CVRS is seeking new members and will be hosting an EMT- Basic class starting in October.
Caption: Scott Sacala and Larry DuPont practice skills using a training manikin at the Cambridge Valley Rescue Squad (CVRS). The CVRS is seeking new members and will be hosting an EMT- Basic class starting in October.
More information on the NYS Department of Health Bureau of EMS EMT-B curriculum can be found at http://www.health.state.ny.us/nysdoh/ems/basic.htm.