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It is National Emergency Medical Services Week this week, from May 17-May 23. 

“EMS Week provides us a time to honor the dedication of those who provide the

day-to-day lifesaving and non-emergency services of medicine’s ‘frontline,’ Richard Paris, of the Grand Coulee Ambulance Service and Volunteer Fire Department stated in a press release. “Emergency Medical Services is a vital public service, and the members of emergency medical services teams are ready to provide lifesaving care to those in

need 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”

Access to quality emergency care dramatically improves the survival and recovery rate of those who experience sudden illness or injury, Paris said.

“Locally, we have a dedicated crew of trained personnel ready to respond to emergencies and non-emergency calls,” Paris said. “They are not full-time employees, they are our neighbors, friends and family members that choose to give back to the community. … They engage in a significant number of hours of specialized training and continuing education to enhance their lifesaving skills and knowledge in anatomy, signs and symptoms, kinematics, treatment, injuries, diseases, prevention and numerous other topics.”

Even “in this new environment and times, they are still preparing, training and ready to

respond to your calls,” Paris said. “This week, take a few moments to think about your Emergency Medical Service personnel.”