EMS in Prince George's County

Presenter: Nana Gyabaah-Kessie, Microbiology, Global Public Health Scholars

---

---

As an EMS recruit, I have watched firsthand aides, officers, and sergeants take command when called upon in the community. Branchville Fire Company focuses on helping those in need when called upon via emergency services. Because they receive such a high volume of calls even as they are a 100% volunteer company, people like myself have put it on themselves to try and give back to the community by offering service. As a current ems recruit, I have learned and still learn drills that can save the lives of others. These drills include but are not limited to extraction, vitals, map books, and moving equipment. Each training makes us sharper so that when an emergency occurs and we are called, we know what to do and how to do it right away. When looking at the data, residents of PG county call emergency services at a higher volume than normal (approximately 145,000) which is much larger than their neighbors in Howard County ( approximately 37,000). The data can be put into research as to why the numbers are abnormal and how to reduce those numbers. More interventions can be done to reduce these call volumes and put into place how residents can remain healthier and safe. I have always wanted to find a way to give back to my community and volunteering allows me to do just that. Going forward I hope to see these numbers reduce and the community become a safer place both health-wise and safety-wise!