COLUMBUS, Ohio –
The 2018 National EMS week is celebrated May 20 – 26.
EMS Week started out in 1974 as a week of recognition and public education. It used to be held in November and was known as Emergency Medical Services Week. In 1982, the observance moved to September and in 1992 the week moved to its current slot in May. These moves were made to separate EMS Week from Fire Prevention week in October.
This year's theme: "EMS Strong: Stronger Together" is a reminder that Emergency Medical Technicians and paramedics remain committed to the tough work that requires passion, purpose and heart to carry out well every day, often in difficult circumstances.
This year, each day has a unique theme highlighting EMS Strong: Stronger Together.
Monday – Education
Did you know throughout the year, the emergency response team provides various training opportunities to associates and tenant organizations? These opportunities include informational booths and displays, briefings and CPR trainings.
The Fire Department will be celebrating the education theme by kicking-off the recognition week with a reading of the EMS week proclamation at the Firefighter and Police Memorial.
Tuesday – Safety
It doesn’t matter how quickly EMS providers get to a scene – bystanders will always be there first. Having the proper education assists in the ability to assess a situation and take action.
Check out the story: A close call for a DLA Land and Maritime associate. Learn how the quick actions of a coworker helped save an associate’s life this year.
The Fire Department will be celebrating the safety theme during a shift breakfast reviewing recent EMS calls.
Wednesday – EMS for Children Day
Raising awareness among youth is very important. This day is a great opportunity to get children familiar with emergency personnel and their vehicles as well as discussing when and how to contact emergency personnel.
The Fire Department will be celebrating the EMS theme for Children Day by visiting the Child Development Center on the installation. Children will take tours of the ambulance and Sparky the fire dog might make an appearance.
Thursday – Save-A-Life
CPR is offered as part of the Defense Supply Center Columbus emergency service education and training opportunities available on the installation. Associates should register through LMS.
The Fire Department will be celebrating the Save-a-Life theme with an internal challenge between the police and fire department.
EMS is an inherently risky job. On any given shift, EMS practitioners may be called to respond to emotionally charged, potentially life-threatening situations.
As EMS week comes to an end, it is important to take the time to recognize the great work that the DSCC emergency response team does on a daily basis.
Check out the spotlight on a few members of our emergency response team: Aaron Vance, Roger A. Komandt Jr., Dan Eshelman and Dylan Garrett.