Frequently Asked Questions -
Emergency Medical Service (EMS)

I need medical financial assistance for an elderly parent. Will EMS help me?

No, EMS – Emergency Medical Service, is comprised of EMT (Emergency Medical Technicians) and Paramedics. These highly trained individuals are skilled in providing medical assistance to a person having a medical crisis prior to reaching a hospital.

When should I call 911 for an ambulance?

Any time a victim’s condition is life threatening or could worsen and become life threatening.

Any time moving a victim could cause further injury.

Any time when traveling to a hospital will take too long without the support of an onboard paramedic and an emergency response vehicle.

I want to learn CPR and First Aid. How can I get trained?

CPR and First Aid training is provided by different organizations. The American Red Cross offers CPR and First Aid training on a regular basis. Various organizations that offer educational opportunities such as Town/Village recreation programs and OCM BOCES, will include CPR and First Aid in course listings from time to time.

I would like to become an EMT. How do I get started?

Enroll in a Basic EMT Original course.

What does it cost to take a Basic EMT Original course?

Some courses include a fee. Courses sponsored by the Onondaga County Dept. of Emergency Management EMS Bureau do not include a fee. However, the prospective student must be a member in good standing with an emergency response agency.

How often are Basic EMT Original courses offered?

The EMS Bureau tries to offer at least one Basic EMT Original course each year. The Basic EMT Original course is scheduled on a semester basis. A fall semester course will begin in August and end with examinations in December. A spring semester course will begin in January and end in May.

My EMT certification has expired. Can I take an EMT Refresher Course?

Yes.

For other questions - contact your County EMS Bureau.