Emergency Medical Service
Emergency Medical Service
Emergency Medical Service (EMS) is one of the most critical functions of El Dorado Fire Rescue. Our EMS personnel respond to medical emergencies ranging from cardiac arrests and traumatic injuries to medical evaluations and mutual-aid calls. Trained to the highest standards, our volunteers provide life-saving pre-hospital care.
What We Do
EMS calls make up the majority of emergency responses for most fire departments in the United States. Our personnel are trained to:
- Assess and treat patients experiencing cardiac events, strokes, trauma, and respiratory emergencies
- Administer medications and perform advanced airway management
- Operate automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and cardiac monitors
- Provide spinal immobilization and hemorrhage control
- Coordinate with receiving hospitals and air medical transport
- Perform CPR and advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) protocols
EMS Certifications & Training
Our EMS volunteers hold a range of certifications that reflect the level of care they are qualified to deliver. Training is ongoing and members must maintain continuing education hours to retain certification.
Emergency Medical Responder (EMR)
The entry-level EMS certification. EMRs provide basic life support, control bleeding, manage airways, assist with childbirth, and operate an AED. This is often the starting point for new EMS volunteers.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
The most common EMS certification in the fire service. EMTs provide basic life support (BLS) — patient assessment, oxygen administration, splinting, and transport. EMT certification requires approximately 120–150 hours of coursework and a National Registry exam (NREMT).
Intermediate/Advanced EMT (AEMT)
AEMTs build on EMT training with IV therapy, advanced airway management, and an expanded pharmacological scope of practice. This level bridges the gap between EMT and Paramedic.
Paramedic (EMT-P / NRP)
The highest level of pre-hospital EMS certification. Paramedics provide advanced life support (ALS) including 12-lead ECG interpretation, medication administration, surgical airways, and complex medical decision-making. Paramedic programs require 1,200 or more hours of training and clinical experience. The National Registry Paramedic (NRP) is the national standard.
Continuing Education & Recertification
All EMS providers must complete continuing education to maintain National Registry or state certification. Topics include trauma management, pediatric emergencies, geriatric care, and hazardous materials awareness. Recertification is typically required every two years.
Join the EMS Team
Whether you are beginning your EMS career or are an experienced paramedic, there is a place for you on our team. We support members through initial certification courses and provide the clinical environment to develop real-world skills. Learn more about volunteering or contact our EMS officer for information about training opportunities.
