FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 13, 2021
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week Starts May 16th
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA - Charlottesville City Council celebrates EMTs and medics in the city.
At its May 3rd meeting, the Charlottesville City Council approved the proclamation to designate May 16 – 22, 2021, as EMS Week. This year marks the 46th annual celebration of EMS Week, which recognizes emergency medical services practitioners across the nation. Since 1974 when President Gerald Ford authorized EMS Week, many cities celebrate with their local communities the highly trained and dedicated EMTs who respond to illnesses and injuries.
The Charlottesville Fire Department (CFD) and the Charlottesville-Albemarle Rescue Squad (CARS) work collaboratively to provide timely emergency medical services 24-hours a day, 365 days a year. The EMS providers dedicate months in classroom and practical training to achieve Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), EMT-Intermediate, and Paramedic certifications. The basic EMT certification requires nearly four months of full-time training, and EMT-I and Paramedic certification can add a year of additional training.
Throughout the city, fire trucks and ambulances are staffed with EMTs, and in many cases, personnel with medic-level certifications. Additionally, throughout the year, CARS and CFD personnel maintain their credentials by participating in continuing education programs that provide updates on best practices, new technologies, and protocols.
Individuals who are interested in joining the Charlottesville Fire Department should monitor the city’s website for firefighter/EMT or Paramedic recruitment opportunities. Community members interested in becoming involved in EMS should also contact the Charlottesville-Albemarle Rescue Squad for volunteer opportunities.
The members and leadership of the Charlottesville Fire Department would like to thank the citizens of Charlottesville, the City Council, and the Charlottesville-Albemarle Rescue Squad for their continued support.
Media Contact
Joe Powers
Deputy Chief - Community Risk Reduction
Charlottesville Fire Department
804-517-0564
powers@charlottesville.gov