I have been thinking about becoming a first responder and need some advice?

I have been thinking about becoming a first responder but I was wondering if anyone had some adivce about what it is like, how to get started, or anything else important. Thanks!I have been thinking about becoming a first responder and need some advice?
To become a certified First Responder really varies per state, such as in my state of NJ first responders are slowly being phased out to become EMT-basics. The best way to start is join a first aid squad and have them put you through the training program, that way they pay for the class and help with CEU's (Continued Education Units).





It's definitely a good experience as long as you are careful with your squad politics, those are my personal opinions but all said and done, I would recommend you try becoming a first responder because the training is about 40 hours and does not expire where as the EMT certification is 140 hours and you need to re-cert every 3 years.





best of luck and feel free to contact me with any further questions,I have been thinking about becoming a first responder and need some advice?
Hi,


For packers2188, can you tell me where to get the First Responder course in NJ? My volunteer organization actually offers the course, but only twice a year and I don't want to wait that long. Any ideas where I can do this in NJ?


Thanks

Report Abuse

First off, go to your nearest American Heart Association training facility (find it at AHA.org) and get the BLS (Basic Life Support Certification). Second, look for search for a Emergency Medical Technician school or a junior college that offers the EMT course. Third, you will have to go and take the NREMT (National Registry) Test for your license. Then you have to get your local licensing through your state or county EMS (Emergency Medical Services) agency. Then you are ready to hit the streets in your brand new uniform and shiny ambulance to pretend like you know what you are doing. :) Be advised, you learn most of your skills OJT (On the JOB), and get ready to learn a bunch of crazy sounding acronyms. :)
As previously stated, it all depends on your state. In NC, all of our local community colleges teach the First Responder( although it will eventually be phased out) through Paramedic courses. They are taught through the Continuing Education department. So, call your local community college or tech and ask about the course. The one in NC is only 40 hours long, however, you must recert every years.





Joining a local first aid service or local ambulance service/rescue squad will be a great help. You can also call them and inquire about the regulations and things of the sort in your case. They can also inform you of laws in your state governing first responders.





As far as what to expect, there is one thing that you learn in emergency services: Expect the unexpected. You could be dispatched for soemone that fell and be doing CPR 5 minutes later, or you could be called out for a person not breathing and you get there and they are sitting up talking to you. The best advice I can give you is to make sure that you do what you are supposed to, when you are supposed to, and KEEP YOURSELF SAFE!!!!!! Take the Hep B vaccines and all other vaccines that are offered. Never assume that you know someone in a time of emergency or depression, and never be scared to admit that you cant handle something and call for help. If you feel unsafe, leave. You cant help someone if you yourself are a victim.





Good luck in your endeavor and I hope that you have as wonderful a career as I have. In the end, its worth it.