Wanting To Join Local EMS Squad

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AustinP0905

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I'm 16 and I live in small North Carolina town. I'm looking to join some sort of EMS but I'm not sure if it's even possible so I have a few questions.

Can a 16 year old be some sort of EMT?
If so, would it be a paying job or volunteer work?(I'm fine with either but curious).
Where should I start in order to get all the training and that kind of stuff?
Thanks in advance!
 
most states require you to be 18, some accept 16 year olds. You would have to check with your state's ems office, and probably only volunteer. A good number of paid places only accept above 21 even. I recommend you find an explorer post, this is the first one on google for NC but I'm sure there are more: http://www.gastongov.com/departments/gems/teams/gems-explorers
 
I don't think there is any state out there allows 16 year old EMTs to practice independently. Some states allow you to take the course and get a "probationary" certification that will be removed when you are 18. In the meantime there has to be an 18+ EMT in the back with you until then.

I am not sure what the age requirement is to be a first responder, I think I was 15 when I got mine but never got an actual certification card for it.

You'll need to check NC laws to determine what the age requirements actually are. Even if 16 year old EMTs are allowed, do not expect a paid position since an organization would have to put a second paid EMT in back with you.
 
AustinP0905 said:
I'm 16 and I live in small North Carolina town. I'm looking to join some sort of EMS but I'm not sure if it's even possible so I have a few questions.

Can a 16 year old be some sort of EMT?
If so, would it be a paying job or volunteer work?(I'm fine with either but curious).
Where should I start in order to get all the training and that kind of stuff?
Thanks in advance!
Click to expand...

You cannot be an EMT until you're 18 in NC, but you can join most volunteer rescue squads or fire departments as a Junior member.

Depending on where you live in NC, I can probably help you out. Send me a PM. I'm a lieutenant for a combination department with a very active volunteer program which includes both fire and EMS juniors.
 
Tigger said:
I don't think there is any state out there allows 16 year old EMTs to practice independently. Some states allow you to take the course and get a "probationary" certification that will be removed when you are 18. In the meantime there has to be an 18+ EMT in the back with you until then.

I am not sure what the age requirement is to be a first responder, I think I was 15 when I got mine but never got an actual certification card for it.

You'll need to check NC laws to determine what the age requirements actually are. Even if 16 year old EMTs are allowed, do not expect a paid position since an organization would have to put a second paid EMT in back with you.
Click to expand...
Who should I contact to get more information about being a volunteer First Repsonder?
 
Christopher said:
Or you could edit in the County in which you live (this isn't specific enough to find you) and that'll help me determine who to point you towards.
Click to expand...
Ok I got it. I've been calling around, but no luck so far. Thanks for the help in advance! I really appreciate it.
 
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