New Explorer Program Offered in EMS
WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. — A new Explorer program will offer teens the chance to learn about careers in emergency medical services in the new EMS Post 911.
Village Ambulance Service has been chartered for a new Emergency Medical Services Youth Explorer Program. The program is through the Boy Scouts of America's Learning for Life foundation and is for both boys and girls ages 14 to 20 who have completed eighth grade.
The first meeting is Wednesday, Feb. 10, at 6 p.m. at the Williamstown Youth Center on Cole Avenue. It is important that both a parent and the prospective Explorer attend.
The meeting will include a review of what is expected from both the Explorer and the program and enrollment. All applicants will require a parent or guardian signature.
Through this program, teens will have the chance to learn different aspects of emergency medical services, including blood-borne pathogens, hazardous materials awareness, splinting, oxygen administration, first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, stroke awareness, heart-disease awareness, radio operations and a variety of other topics.
"The EMS Explorer program provides the opportunity to engage young people in public safety–type activities with hopes of stimulating future career interest in emergency medical services," said Rich Haskins, the post's lead adviser.
The Explorer Program is a worksite-based career education program with the purpose of providing experiences that help young people mature and prepare them to become responsible and caring adults. The Explorer Program is based on a developing relationships between youth and the organizations in their communities and is based on five areas of emphasis: career opportunities, life skills, citizenship, character education and leadership experience.
The ambulance service's goal is to help these same young adults become responsible, caring, and productive adults who may one day be the face of area emergency medical services.
For more information, contact Village Ambulance Service at 413-458-4889.