How to Volunteer With an Ambulance Association

Emergency service organizations across the country are often staffed, at least partially, by volunteers. These dedicated individuals give their time and energy to respond to accidents and emergencies in their communities. If you have ever entertained the idea of working in health care, this may be a good way to explore that possibility. Read on to learn how to volunteer with an ambulance association.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Volunteer

1. Visit your local ambulance association. Most small volunteer services are happy to hear from volunteers. They will answer any questions you have and help you get started.
2. Fill out the application form. Every ambulance association will have a form that must be completed, signed and returned.
3. Submit to a background check. The ambulance association needs to know about your background. They will handle this process.

Train

4. Take a class. Formal training is required before you can begin volunteering with an ambulance association. The initial training is a 25-hour standard first aid class. This qualifies you to work as a dispatcher.
5. Learn CPR. This second step in the training ladder must be completed before you can work as a medic assistant.
6. Go for a drive. Thirty hours of Certified Emergency Vehicle Operations training are required if you want to drive the ambulance.
7. Complete a state certified medic class. Each state has different courses you must complete before you can work as an emergency medical technician. These usually include how to manage illnesses, injuries and possible life threatening situations and take about 120 hours of class time.
8. Qualify as an advanced medic. After working as an EMT for at least one year, you must complete an additional 480 hours of classes to be able to work as an advanced life support technician.