77 New EMTs Join FDNY EMS

New York, NY - 77 new Emergency Medical Technicians joined the the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) Emergency Medical Service on January 27, 2010.

They were part of the Trainee Program, which involves a 14-week, two-part training program. In the first component of the program, participants earn New York State EMT Certification. Then participants move into the FDNY EMS Academy at Fort Totten, Queens, to learn FDNY policies and procedures. Upon graduation, they are promoted to FDNY Emergency Medical Technician.

"Today you are transforming from bystanders into life savers," Fire Commissioner Salvatore Cassano told the group at graduation. "You have chosen a rewarding job, one that lets you make a difference every day."

Chief of EMS John Peruggia added, "I'm proud to be a paramedic. Where else can you go to work and know that you are making a difference in someone's life?"

The new EMTs will be assigned to units throughout the city.

To learn more about becoming a New York State certified EMT, visit http://www.emergencycareny.com/emt_training.html