Hey guys! This is my first post on this awesome forum and I hope it won't be my last. The community looks friendly enough for me to want to ask you guys some questions I had concerning this career path.
Some quick info:
My questions:
I'm really boggled on where to go from here. From what I understand I will need to go to school to become a certified EMT-B(asic) correct? Would I call up my local community colleges and ask if they have any EMS courses or do I call the local fire department or hospital and ask them for instructions on where to go? Maybe you guys can fill me in.
As far as money goes from what I understand EMTs make just above minimum wage ($9-$11) but they get to work alot of hours (24/48hr shifts) and some days they don't get too many calls which results in getting paid to sit around- would this be true?
I read some facts on my local city website about Fire and EMS, here they are:
Also another thing that's been on my mind Are EMT-B(asic) expected to drive the ambulance? Again, I don't drive but even if I could drive I don't know if I would be interested in driving the ambulance. Do most agencies hire their own drivers? Also if anyone here has been an EMT-B(asic) or is currently one can you tell me what your average work day is like? Do you sit inside alot and ride in the back of the ambulance? Do you find the job to be pretty relaxing, despite its nature of sometimes dealing with nasty situations?
I'm so interested in learning more, I feel very passionate about signing up however, I don't want to jump into the field blind without any facts or advice from experienced people. If I can have 5 minutes of any of your time to answer my questions and give me some insight on your life and job as an EMT I would be incredibly happy and appreciative thank you and have a nice night.
Some quick info:
I'm 19, almost 20.
I've been home schooled for the majority of my life, I graduated online 2 years ago.
I've never had a job
I don't drive (I do have my permit but I'm honestly not interested in learning to drive right now- I was in a minor car wreck but I've been too freaked out to drive since then).
I have a very professional attitude I strive to make people feel comfortable and wanted and I really enjoy helping people.
My questions:
I'm really boggled on where to go from here. From what I understand I will need to go to school to become a certified EMT-B(asic) correct? Would I call up my local community colleges and ask if they have any EMS courses or do I call the local fire department or hospital and ask them for instructions on where to go? Maybe you guys can fill me in.
As far as money goes from what I understand EMTs make just above minimum wage ($9-$11) but they get to work alot of hours (24/48hr shifts) and some days they don't get too many calls which results in getting paid to sit around- would this be true?
I read some facts on my local city website about Fire and EMS, here they are:
How Many EMTs & Paramedics Are There?
63 EMTs and 12 Paramedics
How Many Emergency Runs Are Completed in a Year?
In 2009, we responded on 4635 emergency runs. This number will dramatically increase this year as we have for now assumed the non-emergent runs for the county.
What Are the Training/Educational Requirements for EMTs and Paramedics?
EMT school is usually a 6 month class and is offered at several colleges and by private instructors.
Paramedic school is a two year program and is offered at several colleges and by private instructors. A paramedic is trained to administer medications, do cardiac monitoring, and emergency advanced life safety procedures. Some of these consist of IV therapy, intubation, and cardiac pacing.
Also another thing that's been on my mind Are EMT-B(asic) expected to drive the ambulance? Again, I don't drive but even if I could drive I don't know if I would be interested in driving the ambulance. Do most agencies hire their own drivers? Also if anyone here has been an EMT-B(asic) or is currently one can you tell me what your average work day is like? Do you sit inside alot and ride in the back of the ambulance? Do you find the job to be pretty relaxing, despite its nature of sometimes dealing with nasty situations?
I'm so interested in learning more, I feel very passionate about signing up however, I don't want to jump into the field blind without any facts or advice from experienced people. If I can have 5 minutes of any of your time to answer my questions and give me some insight on your life and job as an EMT I would be incredibly happy and appreciative thank you and have a nice night.
Last edited by a moderator: