They’re Yakima Heroes and They’re On The Job Everyday

This is the week America honors front line heroes. The professionals who provide emergency medical services in this community and in communities around the country. This is National Emergency Medical Services Week, May 15-21. Yakima Fire Chief Aaron Markham says “this is the 47th annual celebration of EMS Week, where we honor front line heroes, dedicated to providing emergency medicine that saves so many lives every day.

The theme this year is Rising to the Challenge

The theme of ‘Rising to the Challenge’ is particularly meaningful as it reminds us that EMS professionals are faced with so many challenges today and they still rise above them.” What do EMS professional do in our community? How to they protect and serve? Yakima Fire Department officials say the week "supports and strengthens the EMS community by increasing awareness of the critical role of Emergency Medical Services."

The Yakima Fire Department Chief says he's proud of the professionals in Yakima

Markham calls them heroes who he says show up to work everyday despite the personal risk and hardship. He says the way Emergency Medical Service professionals dealt with the COVID-19 pandemic "showcases their resilience, dedication and readiness.”
Governor Jay Inslee issued a proclamation this month praising the career and volunteer members of EMS teams says "their commitment to specialized training and continuing education to enhance their lifesaving skills."

Former President Gerald Ford was the man who started the week

A news release from the Yakima Fire Department says "In 1974, President Gerald Ford authorized EMS Week to celebrate EMS practitioners and the important work they do in our nation’s communities. EMS Week is presented by the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) in partnership with the National Associations of Emergency Medical Technicians"