Expectations for Members

The Harrisonburg Rescue Squad provides critical emergency medical care and transportation services to the citizens and visitors of the City of Harrisonburg and surrounding Rockingham County.  We answer more than 8,500 emergency calls each year ranging from simple injuries to complex cardiac emergencies.  The community and our patients rely on us to provide timely, professional and skilled patient care.  There are high expectations of performance for all members.

As a rescue squad volunteer, you will be provided with all the training you need to function as an ambulance driver and attendant-in-charge.  This includes classroom and practical training followed by a field internship.  Continuing education is also provided, as well as, numerous options to advance your knowledge, skills and abilities.  Additionally, HRS will provide you with the latest equipment and supplies necessary to provide great care to your patients.

*Simulated Patient

So, just what is expected of you?  

First and foremost, everyone is expected to be a professional.  Our behavior should instill confidence in the community and our patients.  We provide the highest standards of customer service and patient care.  We treat everyone, including fellow members, other responders and bystanders with courtesy and respect.

Next, your volunteer position should be viewed the same way you would a career position.  We have high expectation as we do not feel that a paycheck should determine the level of care a person receives.  While serving with a rescue squad, you are expected to follow department policies and procedures.

Last, but not least, you will be expected to stand duty on a regular basis. Duty obligations are just that–obligations.  We need to you be where you are scheduled to be on time and ready to work.  There is flexibility for illnesses and emergencies, but these should be unusual—just like they are at a regular job.   Your crew, your rescue squad and the community are counting on you to be there.

Members typically staff an ambulance 36 hours each month.   As an Driver you will assist in preparing the ambulance, operating the ambulance to and from emergency calls; and as an EMT, you will prepare the ambulance, treat patients, write medical reports, clean up the ambulance and repeat as often as needed during the shift—day or night, rain or shine.   All members are expected to eventually become an autonomous provider of care, either as a Driver or EMT.  During your shift, you will answer calls as they come. This may sound daunting, but it’s an experience you will never forget.

 

So, what do you get out of this?

Serving as a rescue squad volunteer can truly be a life changing experience.  HRS members will gain memorable experiences, develop new friendships and face challenges few will ever see.  You will also gain skills that can be helpful for a career in the medical field or simply to help you be ready in the event of an emergency at home.

The Harrisonburg Rescue Squad will provide you with an unlimited opportunity to test your skills as a medical provider and leader.   You can expand your horizons into EMS special operations, field supervision, training or management.  You can go as far as you want to go.