How to Volunteer for Rescue Squads

Contributor

By Traci Vandermark
eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (0 Ratings)

Rescue squad in action

Every community needs them. Rescue squads are literally life savers. They are the first to arrive on the scene and to administer help to those who are in traumatic situations. Not only do they help the injured, they must keep bystanders calm and collected. Rescue squads are always in need of volunteers. While an extra person on hand can be utilized no matter how much skill you have, there are ways to prepare yourself and things to know in order to volunteer for a rescue squad.

Why Become a Firefighter?
There are many reasons to become a firefighter, including being a part of a group and serving the communit… More
How to Become a Firefighter
Firefighters must have good character, integrity and be in top physical condition. Become a firefighter wi… More
Firefighter Qualifications
Along with core general studies, firefighters qualifications include completing classes on firefighting an… More
Training to Become a Firefighter
Training for firefighting involves studying fire behavior and fire chemistry, as well as being able to wea… More
What Does a Firefighter Wear?
A firefighter's uniform is his most important asset. It protects him from the heat of the fire and from th… More
Duties of a Firefighter
The duties of a firefighter are multi-faceted, as firefighters need to know how to respond to all types of… More
Firefighter Tools
Ladders, hoses and fire extinguishers are only a few of the tools firefighters use to do their job. Discov… More
Firefighter Tools: Nylon Webbing
Firefighters use nylon webbing to tie a girth hitch around hose lines, around tools, and can be used to re… More
Firefighter Tools: Halligan Bar
Firefighters use tools such as the Halligan bar to break open a variety of doors. See gear, such as the Ha… More
Firefighter Tools: Pick Headed Axe
Firefighters use tools such as the pick headed axe to pry up floor boards and roofing. See gear, such as t… More
Firefighter Tools: Channel Lock Pliers
Firefighters use channel lock pliers for forcible entry into buildings and rooms during a fire. See gear, … More
About Rescue Breathing
Rescue breathing falls under the umbrella of artificial respiration. It is known by a variety of terms, su… More
How to Anchor Rescue Rope
In order to anchor rescue rope for rock climbing, a person should make sure that there system is solid. Le… More
How to Volunteer for Rescue Squads
Every community needs them. Rescue squads are literally life savers. They are the first to arrive on the… More
Where to Take EMT Classes
An emergency medical technician (EMT) provides pre-hospital emergency care. Colleges and universities, com… More

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

CPR training

Get proper training, including a certificate in CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). Being the first on the scene of an accident, disaster or home distress call, this knowledge is fundamental in saving lives, as every second counts. CPR classes are usually offered locally. Call your local rescue squad or hospital to find out the schedule of certification classes.
Step 2

EMT mass-casualty training scenario.

Become trained as an EMT. EMTs must pass a practical exam as well as a written one. Some states require EMT-paramedic training. EMTs are trained in dealing with unexpected childbirth, heart attacks, bone fractures, bleeding, natural disasters and other trauma-related incidents. The schedule for EMT course training can also be obtained from your local rescue department.
Step 3

Ensure that you have reliable transportation. Volunteers for rescue squads need to have access to transportation as they are called to rescue scenes without notice. Having reliable transportation and a license is a must.
Step 4

Contact your local rescue squad's director or captain to find out what exactly is required to join. Each state and municipality may have different requirements and time frames for completing them although the training basics will be the same.