Every EMT and paramedic has a story worth telling — the calls that tested your skills, the patients who changed how you see care, the partner that went above and beyond, the quiet moments in the rig or station that shape a career. These are the stories that connect us — the calls that define our purpose, the lessons learned from wins and losses, the experiences that remind us why we signed up.
What we’re looking for
At EMS1, we want first-person essays capturing real experiences in three broad categories:
- Voices — reflections from EMS professionals on systemic challenges, the emotions behind the work, leadership, agency culture, mentorship, career growth and the topics that resonate with your peers.
- Unforgettable Calls — detailed accounts of calls that changed you; whether marked by success, tragedy, complexity or close calls.
- Day in the Life — a behind-the-scenes look at your role; the routines, the unpredictability, the downtime between calls, and the small but meaningful moments that define EMS life.
Why these stories matter
Your work happens away from headlines. Sharing real stories helps fellow EMS providers — from medics to chiefs — see themselves reflected, learn from each other’s successes and failures, and prepare for what might come. It builds a shared understanding across agencies. It supports professional growth, improves outcomes, and strengthens EMS as a community.
How to write your piece
If you’re thinking about submitting, here are some guidelines.
Tips for writing for Voices
- Share your perspective. Write about leadership, culture, mentorship or change in the fire service through the lens of your own experience.
- Be reflective. What have you learned from your successes or missteps? What advice would you give others based on what you’ve lived?
- Speak from the heart. Use your authentic voice — your story should sound like you, not a policy memo or speech.
Tips for writing for Unforgettable Calls
- Recreate the call. Pull readers into the moment with vivid details — the sounds, sights and emotions of the scene.
- Be honest about what unfolded. Share what challenged you, what you did right and what you’d do differently.
- Focus on lessons learned. Every unforgettable call teaches something — about tactics, teamwork, leadership or resilience. End with the takeaway others can apply.
Tips for writing for Day in the Life
- Show the rhythm of your shift. Highlight the mix of routine and unpredictability that defines a medic’s day.
- Include personal touches. Share what happens between calls — the training, camaraderie, downtime and traditions that make station life unique.
- Capture the human side. Reflect on what keeps you motivated and grounded amid the challenges of the job.
- When in doubt, ask the editor for guidance.
Quick guidelines
- Perspective: First-person, conversational, reflective
- Length: Aim for 600–1,200 words
- Tone: Honest, grounded, professional, authentic — not political or venting
How to submit your work
Send your essay or idea to editor@ems1.com.
Please include:
- Your name, rank, agency and years of experience
- A short 1–2 sentence bio for your byline
If you have a story — big or small — that shaped your EMS career, we want to hear it. Share what you’ve lived so others can see themselves in your story, learn from it, and carry its lessons forward.
Real stories for reference
Read examples of great first-person essays submitted by columnists and contributors:
EMS1 is using generative AI to create some content that is edited and fact-checked by our editors.
