EMS Week 2012

National EMS Week, observed May 20-26, 2012, is an opportunity to recognize the trained professionals who deliver pre-hospital emergency medical care. Within the City of Madison, that includes all members of the City of Madison Fire Department. The firefighters, paramedics, officers and support staff of the Madison Fire Department work together each and every day to provide advanced life support care to the community. In 2011, the Madison Fire Department responded to 19,698 Emergency Medical Service (EMS) calls. That is over 78% of all emergency calls that the fire department responded to in 2011. The Madison Fire Department has eight ambulances staffed by two paramedics each. In addition, each fire engine and each ladder truck is staffed by firefighters who are licensed Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) - Basic. They respond to EMS calls, often arrive before the ambulance, and carry the equipment needed to provide pre-hospital care until the paramedics arrive. The Madison Fire Department works closely with other providers within the larger pre-hospital emergency care system. Communicators at the Dane County Public Safety Communications Center answer the 911 calls, dispatch emergency crews and provide pre-arrival instructions to the callers. Citizen bystanders often provide first aid after calling for help. Law enforcement officers often assist at emergencies and many people behind the scenes insure that the EMTs and paramedics are trained and proficient in their skills. Once an ambulance arrives at the hospital, patient care is transferred to the doctors, nurses and technicians in the emergency department. It takes many people working together as a system to provide high quality pre-hospital care in the Madison area. Each person is important and the City of Madison Fire Department extends its thank you to those who make the system work so well.

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