Questions and Answers about becoming
a Medical Technician
with the Somers Volunteer Ambulance Division

How do I become a volunteer Medical Technician?

Complete an application and hand it in to anyone who is a member of the Somers Fire Department, or mail/deliver it to the Fire Station (400 Main St., Somers). They are also available through SomersNow.com, see the Somers Fire Department link.

We will read and table your application at the next monthly meeting (which is held the 3rd Sunday of every month).

You will soon after be contacted by our investigation/interview committee to set up an interview with you.

Do I have to live in the Town of Somers?

No. You can be a volunteer Medical Technician for Somers Ambulance as long as you live within 3-miles of the Somers town line. If you live further, you must be in town, or within the 7-minute response time to the F.D. while covering your scheduled duty shift.

What are the “age” requirements

You must be 16 to apply. However, if you are 15, you may take the EMT course, as long as you turn 16 years old prior to the end of the class (you must be 16 at the time of the final CT State practical exam). The EMT class is a 6 month course and the MRT class is a 3 month course. The Somers Fire Department has a special program, the “Squad II Program”, for young adults aged 16 to 18. Once a member turns 18, they join the regular ranks of the fire department. Although there are some restrictions on Squad II Members, the restrictions are minimal and are in place for the benefit of the Squad II members (see constitution for more detail).

How much “TIME” do I need to give?

Every 4th Sunday of the month we have a training drill from 7:30p.m. until approximately 9:30p.m. A monthly meeting is held on the 3rd Sunday of every month. Special meetings and mandatory drills may be scheduled, however, you will have a minimum notice of 48 hours. You also must serve not less than 42 hours of “on duty” stand-by time per month in order to receive the monetary stipend (up to $1,000 per year). It’s easier than it sounds. The shifts are 6 hours long. If you run 1 shift on a weeknight (Mon - Fri, 6:00pmto midnight or midnight to 6:00am), you will have 24 hours already! The remaining time, only 3 weekend shifts, can be done at any time during the month. We will work with you on a specific schedule if need be. The bottom line is, you “volunteer” whatever amount of time you can.

Do I need experience?

No, you don’t need experience, BUT you do have to be enrolled in, or have already completed and passed an EMT or MRT course. If your enrolled in a course, you can start running on the ambulance as soon as you’re application has been read at the monthly meeting and you’ve been voted in as a probationary member. Note: you must complete the department mandatory drills prior to riding on the ambulance and hold a current CPR certification (which you will obtain shortly after starting your course). These drills are for your safety and include: Orientation & Safety, Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s), Incident Command (IC), Hazmat & Bloodborne pathogens. Please see our website for more information on SomersNow.com or email SomersFire@hotmail.com

What will “I get” from joining the Ambulance Division?

Free training & uniforms

Incentive plan up to $1,000 per year

Gas allowance $

On-site Fitness Center

After passing an MRT or EMT course, you will be eligible for full reimbursement of the course after your 6month probationary period is over.

Meet new friends & Best of all...You’ll get a GREAT feeling by helping others in their time of need!