Ask any provider and they’ll agree — in an emergency, mere seconds can make the difference between life and death. However, the responsibility of saving lives doesn’t rest solely on the shoulders of EMS providers. In many situations, bystanders are often the first on an incident scene. Their knowledge and ability to provide immediate aid can be the difference between a successful outcome and a tragic loss.
But it’s incumbent on local EMS agencies — that’s you! — to create opportunities to learn the life-saving skills needed to be an effective bystander on scene. In addition, providers are also responsible for staying up to date on clinical best practices and industry guidelines.
Through a holistic approach to education, EMS agencies are forging a path toward a safer and more prepared society, one where lives can be saved through the collective effort of trained professionals and empowered citizens alike.
Check out our “EMS Week – Day 2” video and take a look at the EMS Week Education Day resources we’ve compiled. How is your agency advancing EMS education in your community? Send an email to editor@ems1.com for a chance to be featured in an upcoming article!
Citizen training
In order for citizens to feel empowered to take charge at an emergency scene prior to first responders arriving, they need to be trained — on both the life-saving skills needed and how to harness the confidence to do it.
Citizen Training
From ‘uh oh’ to taking action
Equipping citizens to put down the cell phone and save lives in an emergency
- Training citizens as first care providers at fire and EMS incidents
- Training Day: Train citizens to use an AED
CPR
Citizen Training – CPR
CPR shuffle: The life-saving playlist you need
Every song on our list falls within the recommended 100 to 120 bpm range to perform CPR
Stop the Bleed
Citizen Training – Stop the Bleed
Stop the Bleed – Save a Life
Reduce your community’s risk by training citizens how to control bleeding
- Quiz: How well do you know ‘Stop the Bleed’?
- Training Day: 3 steps for bleeding control (not necessarily in order)
Continuing Education
Your own personal and professional development is paramount for long-term job satisfaction and advancement. It’s also necessary to stay up to date on the latest and best practices for clinical work and patient care.
EMS Continuing Education
How to attain your EMS career goals
EMS leaders can use a professional development plan to identify and attain short-term and long-term goals