Paramedics across the region have been celebrating Emergency Medical Services Week.
They have been raising awareness in their communities about exactly what they do, showing off their facilities and celebrating their accomplishments.
Primary Care Paramedic Rick Trombley says it’s an important week because many people have a different view of the job they do.
The theme this year is “A Proud Partner in Your Community.”
Trombley says that is important because they do provide life saving skills to the people they live, work and play with.
Trombley says they offer more than a ride to the hospital.
He says they are usually the first people on the scene and provide treatments that make a difference in the outcome of a patient’s injury.
Trombley notes there are also many challenges in the job.
For example — Trombley says since they are a proud partner in the community, they usually know some of the victims they treat.
He notes they also work in a chaotic environment that can be different every day — whether it’s on the side of a road or in someone’s home.
Trombley says the message they want people to get this week is paramedics are decided to their communities and the people they serve.