FEATURED IN
- Ammunition Depot Fire Injures 30 in Russia
- Medicare Cost-Cutting Changes for Diabetics May Cause Confusion
- NTSB: Financial Pressures Added to Pilot's Decision to Fly Ill-Fated Organ Transport Flight
- Gunman Opens Fire during Utah Father’s Day Mass
- Three Injured in Iowa Factory Explosion
- Eight Hospitalized After Becoming Ill in Maryland Group Home
- Rock Climbers Injured in 25-Foot Fall in Maine
First of all, I would like to say thank you for all of the feedback I received about the "Living healthy in EMS" column.
Now, before you hang up your 2006 hat and call it a year, I think it's important for all of us to look at 2007 and our responsibilities for making EMS a stronger entity in our community.
It starts with active participation with adjacent emergency agencies to include bordering EMS agencies, dispatch, police and fire. There should be an emphasis on preparation by practicing scenarios that would most likely take place in your area and to do so with the agencies most likely to assist you in those situations. Have a plan in place, and actually take the time to practice it. It will make your next large scale mutual aide go much more smoothly, and it gives you a chance to build a rapport with others in the business as well.
Also, let's all take a few moments the next time we're waiting for our coffee or standing in line to order our next "STEMI in a bag," and say hello to the people that work in the community we serve. Our duties of public service don't begin and end with the sick or injured it includes everyone. The girl behind the counter who is giving you the change for your latte might have a mother two blocks away that will need your services someday. By building a rapport with individuals in your community, you bring a face to your organization that may help to make some feel safer, knowing that they are in your hands.
For all those in EMS that work the holiday shifts this season, thank you and stay safe!
