The Department of Health recognizes first responders during the 42nd Annual National Emergency Services Week, May 15-21, and calls on more volunteers to serve.

“Emergency Services Week is an opportunity to recognize our first responders who provide lifesaving and medical services in our communities,” said, Secretary of Health, John Weisman. “Our Emergency Medical Services and Trauma Care system are part of the very fabric of our communities, but they are in need of volunteers to continue providing these necessary services.”

More than 16,000 EMS and TC system professionals are part of a network supported by local and regional partners.

The network includes eight regional EMS and Trauma Care councils work with local councils to develop and implement plans to ensure services are available across the state.

To learn more about becoming an EMS or TC system volunteer, contact your local fire department.

To find out more about regional councils and how to volunteer as a regional council member visit the Regional EMS and Trauma Resources webpage.

About four in 10 deaths from trauma occur within hours of injury. Since Washington’s EMS and TC system began, the death rate for trauma patients involved in traffic collisions has decreased.

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