Fire Company
by Kathy Newton
The Warren Ambulance Corps currently consists of sixteen EMTs, half a dozen willing drivers, and a host of others who simply arrive on a scene whenever extra help may be needed.
Twelve members hold Basic Life Support -BLS- certification, two are certificated EMT-I , and two are certified Paramedics -Advanced Life Support. We always welcome new members.
As a non-volunteer, I remained blissfully unaware of exactly how hard the ambulance corps works to make sure that townspeople are protected. Although I never needed their services, I always assumed that if I did, the ambulance and EMTs would quickly arrive on the scene. And indeed they do. However, what I didn’t know was how much time was spent scheduling “First Responders,” or how much time is given by volunteers who are on call nights, days, holidays, and weekends.
idn’t think about the time they spent each month practicing skills or drilling, or about the 140 hours spent in classroom and practical experience settings, as they seek certification. I never gave thought to the dinners left on the table when a call comes at an inconvenient time, or the nights of interrupted sleep. As an EMT, I quickly became aware of all these things and more. I realized what a great feeling it is to know you are giving back to a wonderful community. Helping a neighbor who is sick or injured, being a familiar face to someone in need, and knowing what needs to be done in a critical situation are all reasons why we become EMTs. Training and volunteering to be an active EMT is a great way to become connected with the community.
All community members are welcome to become part of Warren Volunteer Fire Company and Ambulance Corps. Classes are held locally on a regular basis.
Contact Keith Layman at 868-7241 to find out how you can help.
Warren Volunteer Fire Company
11 Sackett Hill Rd.
Warren, Connecticut 06754
860-868-2328
