Kids

[Amelia]

Hi all,

Was wondering what considerations to take about kid's schedules and what not. I'm wanting to work part time, maybe 2 12-hour shifts or something. I know sometimes you have to take extended hours or extra days- those with kids, etc. Do you guys have a person on standby that can watch them or get them to where they need to go (i.e. school) just in case?

 

[Twitch559]

I'm not sure where you are from, but where I am at, responsibilities like kids are your personal responsibility and not allowed to stay at a station or a post with another unit because we are not guaranteed to stay there for a set time and there are times where no one is at a post or a station.

Maybe ask around at some of the companies that you would be eligible to work at prior to submitting an application. ~Best of luck

 

[WildlandEMT89]

I hate to be the one to say it, but your kids should be your priority over work schedule. This lifestyle isn't for everyone, I know personally I would not be able to do this job without my awesome wife backing me and caring for the kids when I'm on shift.
I work a set schedule but am never guaranteed that I will get off shift right at the scheduled time. Without my wife there looking after the kids and making sure their needs were met, my family would be living a very different life.

That being said look around for what will work for your family as far companies and shifts.

 

[NomadicMedic]

Not a bad question at all. I know several single moms who work in EMS and have people who can help out if needed. It's easier if you have family that can help, but friends help each other out. I've seen several of the EMS moms help each other out with getting the kids squared away if there's a late call.

It's not perfect, but that's life today.

 

[RebelAngel]

I schedule my run days for my ex's day with the kids.

If a call comes in for our volunteer dept I leave the kids with someone if I can. If I can't, I don't go unless it's a quick call, like for a lift assist and one of my older kids is home to watch the younger ones. My boyfriend also volunteers with our dept so if I run a call usually he comes with, if he's home.

 

[Amelia]

I have a good support system and thankfully im not single- i just have a husband who works long hours. Ill get it all figured out when its time.

 

[Ewok Jerky]

the day you make plans to get out on time is the day you get held over 2 hours. dont have a backup plan, have a primary plan that doesnt involve you getting out on time.

 

[Amelia]

I'm just asking because I've been a stay at home mom for the past 7 years and I haven't had to think about all of this before. Like I said- I'll just worry about it when I see what shifts are available for being at the bottom of the totem pole.