Zionsville Fire Department received its certification as an authorized National Association of EMT (NAEMT) Training Center. This certification allows the department to teach a variety of nationally recognized courses for both EMTs and paramedics based on the latest best practices in emergency medical care.
NAEMT training centers must possess dedicated facilities used for training, employ experienced EMS faculty, maintain affiliation with an emergency medical institution and be committed to developing and sustaining a quality EMS training program.
ZFD EMS Manager Kerry O’Haver serves as the department’s training center coordinator and Dr. Michael Kaufmann serves as the medical director. O’Haver began pursuing this certification in February 2021 to broaden and enhance prehospital emergency education opportunities.
“We are fortunate to have such a great EMS leader with Kerry. He strives each day to take us to the next level,” said Fire Chief James VanGorder.
“We now have the opportunity to provide valuable continuing education courses inside our own department instead of paying to send our people to outside agencies,” O’Haver said. “Along with this benefit, we can offer our neighboring departments the same educational opportunities that are very close to home as well.”
With this certification, ZFD can initially teach the following courses: Advanced Medical Life Support (16 hours), Pre-Hospital Trauma Life Support (16 hours), EMS Safety (8 hours) Geriatric Education for Emergency Medical Services and the Community Paramedicine Program.