During November, members of the Summit Volunteer First Aid Squad Answered 164 9-1-1 emergency calls. These included 98 medical emergencies; 19 motor vehicle accidents, including 1 with an entrapped occupant; 6 traumatic injuries; 19 falls, 1 pedestrian struck by an automobile, 5 reports of poisoning, 3 medical alarm activations; 2 expectant mothers in labor; 1 stand-by at a fire scene; and 5 lift assists of patients who did not require transport to a hospital.
Of these calls, 15 were answered by an off-duty “back-up crew” consisting of members responding from home or work when the on duty crew is busy. On 2 occasions, all 3 Summit ambulances were responding to simultaneous calls. 15 emergency calls were to provide mutual aid assistance to neighboring towns.
The Squad answers calls for help at any time of day or night and at a variety of locations. “House calls” to the patient’s home are the most common. Accidents and medical emergencies on roads or highways are also common, as are emergencies at local businesses. Other response locations included healthcare professional’s offices, assisted living facilities, schools, places of worship, parking lots, sidewalks, athletic fields and public parks.
Squad members also send ambulance crews to support the Summit Fire Department at 2 live burn training sessions in addition to providing ambulance coverage at 2 varsity football games and grandparents day at a local school.
The all-volunteer First Aid Squad, responds to emergency calls 24/7, is entirely funded through private donations and does not bill for service. The Squad has 90 members, including 20 junior members and is always looking for new volunteers to join its ranks. All needed training, uniforms and equipment is provided. For information on becoming a volunteer, or donating to the squad please call 908-277-9479, or visit their web site at: summitems.org.
