Community celebrates national EMS Week

The 49th annual National EMS Week was observed May 21-27.
On May 23, community members gathered for an Imperial EMS celebration.
“We had approximately 65 to 75 people come to the celebration,” former EMS president Deb Hayes said.
“The turnout was about what we expected with everyone’s busy schedules.”
Held at Imperial City Square, there was plenty to enjoy including a meal and multiple activities.
The activities available were organized to help teach important skills that many should know.
The public was able to get to know the EMS crew and explore the ambulance during a guided tour.
Hayes said most of the members of the Imperial EMS helped out with the event.
Trained EMS and Chase County Community Hospital staff taught hand-only CPR.
“Imperial EMS and Chase County Hospital joined forces to teach laymen CPR for members of the community as everyone needs to know CPR as you never know when you might need to use it,” Hayes said.
The Imperial Police Department led a bike safety training session and gave away two helmets.
The EMS crew also had a showcase of equipment used by EMS professionals and a presentation demonstrating the skills and expertise of EMS personnel.
Many also enjoyed a free-will donation dinner and door prizes were awarded.
“The free-will donations will be used towards the purchase of an electric stair chair,” Hayes explained.
Wauneta EMS also had a community event in honor of National EMS Week on May 25.