Thirty-eight years ago, the U.S. celebrated the first week dedicated to emergency medical services. This week marks the 38th annual National EMS Week. This year’s theme is “Anytime, anywhere. We will be there.”
That kind of dedication deserves more than just one week of recognition.
Many people do not realize that many emergency medical technicians are also volunteers, or that the paid paramedics work 24-hour shifts so there is always someone there to answer an emergency call.
And for those on call, the beeper going off means missed meals, missed sleep and time away from their families.
They do all this because they want to help others in their time of need.
And through their helping, they become deeply entrenched in their community.
With every call to which they respond, they strengthen this bond to their community.
It is a small gesture of thanks that the community honors them with a week dedicated to them.
At the department, there is lots of talk about having family support and understanding of what EMS members do.
While no formal celebration took place for EMS members in East Peoria, Assistant Fire Chief Randy Hurd said the week is celebrated within the department.
“We are recognizing the great job these guys do day in and day out,” said Hurd. “You name it, they will be there.”
The entire community should participate in National EMS Week.
Since one week is not enough to thank them for the more than 3,000 calls to which they respond every year, saving lives and putting their own safety at risk, East Peoria should at least try to make that one week count.
Take the time to thank a paramedic or EMT this week. Make them a plate of cookies, a cake, send them a card or simply buy them a beer in recognition of their service to public safety.
