EMS (Emergency Medical Services) Week is May 21-27.
Imagine having a medical emergency. Perhaps you’ve been in an auto accident; or have tumbled down a hillside while hiking; or you’ve become short of breath while shoveling snow. You dial 911 requesting an ambulance. Now imagine there is no emergency medical service available to help you. It’s truly a terrifying thought.
Thankfully, Colchester Rescue and Colchester Technical Rescue employees and volunteers are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. During Town events like the Triathlon, football games, and July 4th Fireworks Colchester EMTs are waiting near the action, ready to respond immediately to any emergency that may arise. They provide mutual aid to neighboring communities and may join with other Rescue crews at large emergencies or community disasters. They share their knowledge with community members by hosting courses in CPR and use of AEDs (automated external defibrillators).
Colchester Rescue has 5 full time staff and between 35-40 volunteers. Many volunteer members average 60 hours of service a month. Colchester Technical Rescue has 26 specially trained volunteers who complete a minimum of 24 in-house trainings per year. Tech Rescue is physically demanding but very rewarding!
Colchester Rescue’s annual Open House will be held Wednesday, May 24th 6:00 – 8:00 PM, at the Colchester Rescue Station (687 Blakely Rd). Bring the family to enjoy hot dogs and refreshments, meet the members and learn about their equipment. Most of all, take the opportunity to thank the men and women who selflessly serve our community every day of the year.
For more information about the Town Manager’s Office, please visit http://colchestervt.gov/manager or call (802) 264-5509.