39. Paramedics
Some of the everyday heroes in the United
are the country's paramedics. These young men and
are usually the first people who respond to
emergencies suffered by citizens. Paramedics must complete a
extensive physical training program that is designed to
out those who cannot make the cut. A
must be in fit condition, and be mentally
to perform his or her duties in the
of danger. Many of these heroes must endure
-threatening situations when responding to emergencies. Paramedics are usually
to a county, or city fire department, but
are also some private paramedic organizations.
In Southern
, there are two primary schools for paramedic training.
are UCLA's Daniel Freeman Paramedic program and the
Training Institute. Both of these schools provide candidates
the Los Angeles County and City Fire Departments.
become a paramedic for a county or city
, candidates must also pass a psychological screening and
physical training program.
Some of the equipment paramedics
is very specialized. They carry basic and advanced
support gear such as forcible entry tools so
can reach people in peril, saws to cut
obstacles, and other emergency equipment. Paramedics provide a
service to the communities they serve. They must
certified in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) techniques, and be
to handle all situations.
Some paramedics are trained
respond to what is called Mass Casualty Incidents (
). These emergencies occur whenever there is a tragic
such as the September 11, 2001 attacks on
country, and other emergencies like earthquakes, mudslides, or
. Paramedics can also be sent to emergency situations
citizens who call the 911 emergency phone number.
Check
Hint
OK