St. Charles First Response
Coordinator - Elaine Tremblay
We are looking for outgoing individuals to join our team in providing the service of emergency patient care to our community.
The Emergency First Response Team is an organized group of qualified first aiders who serve to respond to medical emergencies and to assist in stabilizing patients, on the scene, until an ambulance or doctor arrives.
To be a member of the First Response Team you must have the following qualifications:
1. Must be at least 16 years old and 18 years old to drive the First Response Vehicle.
2. Must have a class 'G' Ontario Drivers License (or higher rating).
3. Have a current First Aid Certificate and CPR Certificate (or be willing to obtain said certificates).
4. Must live within 7 minutes of the fire hall.
All interested persons should send a letter of interest stating their qualifications to:
The Corporation of the Municipality of St. Charles
2 King Street East
St. Charles, Ontario
P0M 2W0
REMINDER
1. In case of emergency (police/fire/ambulance), call '9-1-1'.
2. You must know your '9-1-1 ' / civic address.
3. Make sure your number is visible at all times.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT FIRST RESPONSE
What is the First Response?
The First Response is a volunteer base of people willing and trained to help those in need of immediate medical attention. When seconds count it is important to get someone who is in distress medical help as soon as possible. The First Response was designed to do just that. Located in the heart of St. Charles, medical life support can get to a casualty quickly to start giving medical attention until an ambulance arrives.
Who is eligible for the services?
Anyone needing medical attention.
How do I call the First Response for help?
The number to call in any medical emergency situation is 9-1-1. The First Response operates on a paging system. Once the page is received, the on call volunteer will immediately go to the First Response garage to get the medical van and necessary equipment. A call will be in turn made to the dispatch centre from the garage or van to get further instructions and directions to the emergency situation.
How come some calls are missed?
Lack of on call members or because the ambulance is close by.
What does it take to become a First Responder?
Only thing needed in becoming a First Responder is the willingness, desire, and initiative to help others in an emergency situation.
What course do I need to be a First Responder?
The first two basic courses to saving a life are requirements to joining the team of First Responders. These courses include Standard First Aid and CPR. Approximately every three years the Ministry of Health offers Certificate courses such as Emergency First Response.
What kind of equipment is used?
The equipment used by the First Response team is basically the same used by ambulance attendants.
What kind of training do First Responders have?
With one practice session per month, new as well as old members familiarize themselves with all the pieces of equipment. Individuals are trained on all aspects of First Response. Starting by knowing how to respond to a call and filling out call reports and other necessary documentation. How, when and which equipment to use for specific emergencies, protection against contaminants, and operations of the van. Using scenarios as real life emergencies and necessary equipment, members go through the steps to helping and saving a casualty's life.
