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WINNIPEG December 28, 2005 - In a move to further enhance emergency services for Winnipeggers, paramedic members of the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) will have the opportunity to voluntarily step forward in the New Year to receive training as internationally accredited Level 1 Fire Fighters.
“This training will put fully accredited, cross-trained paramedics side by side with firefighters in the ‘hot’ zone,” said WFPS Chief Wes Shoemaker. “Here, they’ll be able to provide immediate patient care – both to citizens and to Fire Paramedic colleagues.”
As well, Shoemaker said cross-trained paramedics will be integrated into specialty emergency response teams such as Hazardous Materials and Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear (CBRN).
“This initiative will further strengthen what is already a strong emergency response fire and paramedic team,” said Shoemaker. “It will better equip and prepare us to respond to an increasing call volume and will ensure increased safety and capacity for future growth of our city.”
The voluntary training program will be conducted on a paramedic’s own time and will be in addition to training commitments already in place for firefighters. In order to acquire these internationally recognized qualifications, candidates must successfully complete:
- A theory practicum conducted on-line and in self-study; and
- A practical skills phase including meeting medical and physical requirements to perform the tasks.
If completed successfully, candidates will be granted an accredited Fire Fighter Level 1 qualification which would allow them to proceed to Level 11 training and qualification, if desired.
Last update: 30.09.2008* Top of Page
