EMS volunteers needed throughout New Jersey
The approach of national EMS Week (May 18-24) provides a timely opportunity to remind the public of the need for EMS volunteers. Everyday illnesses, New Jersey's aging population and congested roads tax our alreadyoverstretched emergency health care system, and the demand for frontline responders will only increase. Now consider the nationwide shortage of EMS responders - paid and volunteer - and the ever-present terrorism threat.

EMS volunteers played a huge support role during and after 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina, as well as during repeated flooding that plagued areas throughout New Jersey in recent years.

The 79-year-old nonprofit New Jersey State First Aid Council represents more than 20,000 EMS volunteers. Our newest recruitment tools include a 13-minute video and three 30- second public service announcements created professionally using real volunteers and a grant obtained through the state Office of Emergency Medical Services. Visit www.njsfac.org to view the video. Call (732) 988-9110 for information on volunteering for a local first aid squad.
Sue Van Orden
President
N.J. State First Aid Council