EMT Basic Training: Hobby or Duty?

There is a good chance that you have seen the sudden uprising of advertisements encouraging you to sign up for an EMT class or volunteer for the Red Cross---print ads and commercials asking you to be ready in the event that something unfortunate happens. Perhaps this has caused you to seriously think about taking a CPR class or receive other training. However, now you may be wondering "Just how much of a duty is this? Do the people that receive EMT training do it because they feel obligated as a citizen, or do they enroll because they personally find it interesting?"

One of the drawbacks to EMT and other sorts of training is the money and time invested. Though the cost of a course varies, depending on where and when you attend classes, in general a course will cost around $650.00, which is not insignificant. Also, the basic courses run for five months, which can be a lengthy time commitment for anyone with a basic schedule. This is a significant use of valuable resources (time and money) for a skill set that will rarely, if at all, be needed. Also, you may wonder "If receiving EMT training is really so important, why aren't more people doing it? And if indeed EMT's are prevalent, why should I need to be one? Isn't that what 911 and the paramedics are for?"

On the other hand, basic EMT training can save a life. In many medical emergencies, the first few minutes are the most important, and it is often impossible for emergency services to respond in that time frame. While your training may never be called upon or needed, in the even that it is, it could be the difference between life and death---for you, or for a loved one. Also, knowing that you possess the ability to deal with an emergency situation may make you feel more confident in your day to day life.

In short, while there are many costs involved in taking an EMT class, the benefits can be enormous. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide.

Interesting Links:
http://www.ambulancehospital.com
http://www.doctorsblog.co.uk
http://www.medicalidonline.com
http://www.medicalidentificationsystem.com
http://www.medicalidentificationsystems.com