Warren EMT Class Set for March 25

Think you have what it takes to be on the front lines of today's modern emergency services?

The Warren Fire Department is now accepting applications for its EMT class, scheduled to begin March 25.

[A flyer with more information is attached to this article in .pdf format.]

Bill Estrella, coordinator of the course and a member of WFD since 1971, explained that this year marks the 60th Anniversary Year of the Rescue Squad — and noted how the role of Emergency Management Technicians has changed over that time.

"It's changed dramatically because of the nature of emergency medical care," Estrella said during a recent phone interview. "The first defibrillators were like the ones you see on old TV shows like Rescue 51 — a big unit with the two paddles — and now it's all self-contained. It's a lot different than it was."

But while the technology has evolved over the years, Estrella explained that the basic requirements for being an EMT aren't all that different than they ever were.

"This [job] requires a special kind of person to stay motivated and engaged, one who is in it for the service versus the glory," he noted.

A perfect example is the performance of the department's volunteers during the recent winter storm over the weekend of Feb. 9 and 10.

"Our people did an outstanding job, from shoveling out the hydrants to moving people to shelters during the storm," recalled Estrella.

To be eligible for the class, applicants must be 18 years of age or older and hold a high school diploma or GED.

Once certified as an EMT, graduates can then apply to become volunteer firefighters in the Warren Fire Department.

For information or to enroll, call 401-273-6900 ext 103.