Ambulance service needs more responders, EMTs
News | Published on January 8, 2024 at 1:55pm CST
Glacial Ridge Ambulance urgently needs full-time Emergency Medical Responders (EMRs) and EMTs in Glenwood, it was announced last week.
Free training is provided. On-call EMR and EMT volunteers are also needed days and nights in Glenwood, Starbuck, and Brooten. Having trained and dedicated personnel is essential for allowing ambulances from each city to respond. For example, without two staff or on-call volunteers, the ambulance doesn’t leave the garage from Starbuck or Brooten. Calls are responded to from Glenwood, which is centrally located in the service area. While this response time is well within state requirements, it is not what the community has been fortunate to have for decades.
Those who know or knew someone on the ambulance, know they probably worked or volunteered for many years, some even decades. Those who know an EMR or EMT, also know how fulfilling it is (or was) to be able to help in medical emergencies. They and their families are proud. While on-call EMRs and EMTs are considered volunteers, they receive a stipend for on-call and on-the-job time. Unfortunately, fewer people are able or willing to volunteer for multiple reasons, it was stated. Once new EMTs and EMRs are trained, they are assigned to the ambulance location closest to their home or work. The volunteer schedules are flexible to work around full-time jobs and family calendars.
Employer Support is Crucial: Your business can be part of the solution. Local employers with just a few employees can significantly help this situation. Glacial Ridge Health System is asking local employers, especially in Starbuck and Brooten, to consider flexibility for their employees to be on-call and respond to medical emergencies during daytime hours. The more volunteers there are, the fewer days they will each be on-call.
Free EMR Training Provided: Get trained and licensed at no cost to drive an ambulance and assist EMTs on Glacial Ridge Ambulance in Glenwood or Starbuck. The training course will prepare you with the skills and confidence to help change the outcome of medical emergencies in our community.
Free EMR to EMT Training: This is an excellent opportunity to become an EMT and have your education paid for while working as an EMR. Inquire about the course and commitment to the ambulance service as an EMT.
Spread the Word: Anyone who knows individuals who work or live in Glenwood, Starbuck, or Brooten and may be interested in working full-time or volunteering on-call with the ambulance, tell them about the need! Community and employer support is vital in recruiting volunteers.
For questions or to apply: Call Greg Meyers at 320-634-2264, view the job description, and apply online at glacialridge.org/careers.
Volunteering (paid stipend) as an EMR/EMT is a noble and crucial service that directly contributes to the community’s well-being. Your contribution can make a significant difference in ensuring timely emergency medical services in our community.
