little question

[litfroggie]

Hi. How do you become an EMT? I want to become one for my area,but I really don't know where to start. Can someone help me out a little?
Thanks

[mtwaites]

One of the first things that you would like to do, is to get the highest level of first aid... This will help prepare you for the EMT... Also get a class4 or the one that allows you to drive a passenger bus or an ambulance.

[litfroggie]

Thanks for the help,but do you think you can help me with something else? I know this might sound pretty sutpid of me,but can you tell me what a class 4 is?

[mtwaites]

Hi, Class 4 means that you're able to drive passenger buses of more than 15 people, and also allows you to drive ambulances. In order to do fire fighters, you have to do things like getting class one or 3 with air, that will allow to you driver passenger vans of 30+ and 1 or 2 tonne trucks.

[distchief60b]

The class 4 is simply an endorsement that says you are licensed to drive other vehicles. Some departments also require EVOC..Emergency Vehicle Operators Course..... This is usually taught by your state training agency or a contractor.

As far as EMT goes, in most places it is now available at the community college level. In Florida it requires Medical Terminology in most places before EMT. The course is very in depth. The course I took in Fla lasted from June to November (3 nights a week) and included some 12 hour clinical rotation days (6 of them) as well as some 8 hour practical days. You do not have to have first aid to get in.

My advice is for you to go to your local Fire Department and ask for direction. In most cases thought the Department of Health for your state is the primary agency for EMT.

[litfroggie]

Hello. Thanks for all the advice you have given me. I will graduate in a few years from high school. I am planning on going to college for an EMT. Do you think you can suggest some colleges?
Thank you