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2017 EMS Week Theme: EMS Strong: Always in Service

Marking National Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week (May 21-27), New Jersey Health Commissioner Cathleen Bennett recognized the more than 30,000 EMS professionals throughout New Jersey for their commitment and dedication to service.

"New Jersey’s EMS professionals put their lives on the line every day to respond to more than one million calls and are available 24 hours a day,” Commissioner Bennett said. "We should recognize and honor their dedication to the residents of our state during National Emergency Medical Services Week."

Governor Chris Christie issued a proclamation expressing his appreciation of New Jersey's EMS professionals for the services they provide to protect the health and save the lives of state residents.

This year marks the 44th year that the American College of Emergency Physicians is sponsoring National EMS Week to raise public awareness of the critical role emergency medical responders play around the country. The nationwide theme of the week is "EMS Strong: Always in Service.” The campaign is being launched to increase awareness, interest and excitement about the profession, and how EMS professionals respond at any time and in all types of weather to care for the sick and injured.

The New Jersey Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMS) celebrates its 50^th year, as one of the oldest EMS offices in the country.  Staff will be in the field thanking EMS crews personally throughout the week.

May 24th has been designated as EMS for Children Day, recognizing nationwide efforts to improve pediatric emergency care while encouraging everyone to be advocates for child safety and injury prevention. Children require specific equipment, supplies, and medications that may not always be available in emergency systems designed for adults. Governor Christie also issued a proclamation emphasizing the importance of providing services to children. This year marks the 32-year celebration of the Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMSC) Program nationally and the Department of Health's 24^th anniversary of its EMSC program.

New Jersey has more than 30,000 certified Emergency Medical Technicians staffing licensed and volunteer ambulance services. In addition, New Jersey has more than 1,600 certified paramedics who staff Mobile Intensive Care Units and respond to the most critically ill or injured patients.

Follow the New Jersey Department of Health on Twitter at twitter.com/NJDeptofHealth and on Facebook at facebook.com/NJDeptofHealth.