FAQs

General FAQs

Q. What if I need an ambulance?

A. In the event you need an ambulance in an emergency, dial 911.  That is the best course of action in any emergency situation.  The 911 dispatchers are specially trained to evaluate and dispatch the necessary equipment and individuals to handle any emergency you may have. Although the 911 center is not to be used as a point of information, it is very appropriate to call if you truly believe there is an emergency that is a threat or potential threat to life or property.  If you do inadvertently dial 911, do not hang up.  Wait until the dispatcher answers and explain it was a misdial.  Otherwise, you will be visited by a police officer to make sure everything is OK.

Membership FAQs

Q. What do I do after I join?

A. There are three classifications of active riding members in our organization.  They are:

1.  Emergency Medical Technician - Must have one on every call.

2.  Vehicle Operator (Ambulance Driver)

3.  Attendant

The Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) is the overall responsible person.  He/she must have completed the EMT training program and must pass a practical and written test administered by the New York State Department of Health.  The course is approximately 120 hours.  For more information go to the Putnam County Bureau of Emergency Service website at http://www.pcbes.org and look under training.  This course is free (after reimbursement for the course) to individuals who have completed their probationary status, are currently active in the organization, and obtained prior approval at the discretion of the EMS Chief.

The Vehicle Operator must be at least 21 years of age, have a valid New York State driver's license and complete a course in Emergency Vehicle Operations.  This individual is responsible for getting the vehicle and crew to the scene of an emergency and to the hospital when necessary in a safe and expedient manner.

The attendant is a person who may or may not be an EMT but is riding along to assist the person providing direct care to the patient.  It is important that the attendant knows the vehicle and where all the equipment is onboard.  They also learn a lot by helping and watching the EMT in charge.  This is a very good entry-level position.

Members must sign up for rostered duty on a monthly basis and must ride a minimum of 16 hours of rostered ambulance duty per month.  You must not consume any alcoholic beverages within 12 hours of going on shift.  You must be within a 5-minute response to our headquarters.  Many of our members stay at quarters when on call.  We have television, wireless LAN, kitchen, bedroom, shower, and laundry facilities for members on call.

Q. Do I need skills to join?

A. The following is a partial list of qualifications taken from the NYS DOH Policy Statement relative to job duties and responsibilities:

• Ability to communicate effectively via telephone and radio equipment
• Ability to lift, carry and balance up to 125 pounds (250 pounds with assistance)
• Ability to use good judgment and remain calm in high-stress situations
• Ability to be unaffected by loud noises and flashing lights
• Ability to read English language, manuals, and road maps
• Ability to accurately discern street signs and addresses
• Ability to converse, in English, with coworkers and hospital staff with regard to the status of the patient
• Possesses good manual dexterity with the ability to perform all tasks related to the highest quality patient care
• Ability to bend, stoop and crawl on uneven terrain
• Ability to withstand varied environmental conditions such as extreme heat, cold, and moisture
• Ability to work in low light situations and confined spaces

You may have more requirements if you strive to become an EMT.  However, even if you fall short on a couple of the above items, please contact us and let us evaluate the requirements versus your desires.

Q. How much time is required for membership?

A. The bylaws of the organization requires that you sign up for 16 hours of rostered ambulance duties per month. You also need to attend a minimum of at least 2 monthly membership meetings for the year to maintain active membership status. Additional training sessions will be required depending on your role in the organization, whether you are a driver or an EMT. There will also be work details and supplemental training sessions available that members are highly encouraged to attend. 

Any further questions feel free to contact us! Non- Emergency Number: (845) 225-7000