How Volunteer EMTs Work

Although a simple willingness to help others and a desire to give back to the community are great reasons to become a volunteer emergency medical technician (EMT), there are also some tangible benefits that you might be interested to learn about.

If you're pursuing a job in the medical field, volunteering as an EMT is a great way to gain real-life work experience. And when you're looking for a job, previous experience is a necessity. For anyone who is not pursing a medical career, EMT volunteering can save you a bit of cash by getting you into a free class or two.

At some universities, volunteers receive free emergency medical service (EMS) classes, food vouchers and reimbursement for campus parking fees. Volunteer EMS programs run by cities and towns may not offer parking or food vouchers, but many of them offer funding for school. In many cases, volunteer EMTs are eligible to receive tuition dollars toward continuing education courses. One stipulation, however, is that these courses are related to work in the emergency medical field and count toward an EMT's recertification [source: Hoboken, University of Minnesota].

Also, this may go without saying, but working stand-by at social or sporting events comes with free admission. While it's true you may not be able to sit in the stands or participate as a guest, you'll be working in a fun, lively atmosphere. To find out about the benefits offered by EMS organizations in your area, it's best to contact the organizations directly because the benefits offered can vary from one group to another.

If you're interested in learning more about becoming a volunteer EMT, check out the next page for links to more information.

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