National EMS Week: 'Behind Every Successful Firefighter is a Trainer'

Everyone at one time or another has had the opportunity to see the Fire Department make their appearance, whether in a fire engine or in the aid car, as they breeze by with lights and sirens. In fact, you may have had the need to call upon your local firefighters for a variety of services that are provided, both minor and major. Though these individuals may have never considered themselves “Jack or Jill of all trades”, it is apparent that they have to meet numerous needs. This is just part of the mission that firefighters in our department agreed to perform when they chose this profession.

These individuals must continually maintain their firefighting and emergency medical services skills in order to be prepared to meet these challenges, but that’s only the beginning. There is specialized training to enhance the life-saving techniques, as well as, dealing with others affected by the situations that arise, be it family, friends, or just passers-by. We have all heard the adage, “Behind every successful man is a woman,” that isn’t necessarily the case here, but rather “Behind every successful firefighter is an instructor.”  One who has dedicated additional time and training to assist fellow firefighters in exceeding their present knowledge and skills.

As Eastside Fire and Rescue’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Training Coordinator, I am very proud and grateful to the many in-house continuing education instructors I have assisting in this challenge. These individuals perform their skills as firefighters and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT), but have also exceeded their training requirements, and are the key element to our Agency’s quality improvement and assurance.

National EMS Week brings together local communities and medical personnel to publicize safety and honor the dedication of those who provide the day-to-day life-saving services. Not only do we want to take this opportunity to recognize our firefighters, but I also would like to thank and acknowledge the EMS instructors of our Agency for their influence and assistance as we continue to meet the challenges in keeping up our professional skills.

--Elenjo Schaff, EMS Training Coordinator, Eastside Fire & Rescue