Who are we?
We are volunteer EMT's, Emergency Medical Technicians, who provide pre-hospital medical care during an emergency.  It is our responsibility to provide quick and efficient basic care to those in need.  The New Vernon First Aid Squad has provided emergency care for Harding Towniship for over 25 years.  We are composed entirely of men and women who volunteer their time for this life-saving service.  We do not charge for our services, nor are we supported by taxes, all necessary funds are recieved through donations and fund-raisers.  If not for people just like you who are willing to volunteer their time, this important service could not exist.

What do we do?
We respond to medical emergencies, traffic accidents, and fires.  All our members are trained EMT's who provide immediate medical care at the scene and, if necessary, transport the patient to Morristown Emergency Hospital, or other medical facilities.  We also work closely with hospital paramedics in some situations.

Who can join?
Anyone who lives or works in Harding Township, or the adjacent towns, may join if they are at least 16 years old.

Do I need any medical experience?
No, once you join the Squad, you'll receive training that is certified and sponsored by the State.   These courses are offered many times a year at various times and nearby locations.   The Membership Committee of the First Aid Squad will help you find a course that is convenient and fits your needs.   During your training period, you will be assigned to an experienced crew and will ride along as an observer to see how the squad works in action.  Any successfully completed training course is free of cost!

What are the duty requirments?
We are all assigned to a crew for a certain day of the week for either a night or day shift.  Shifts are 12 hours long and run from 7am to 7pm for a day shift or 7pm to 7am for a night shift.  Each crew is also assigned to one weekend night shift a month.  Friday, Saturday and Sunday day shifts are "scrambles"; any of us who are available during a call are encouraged to respond.  The schedules are rigid, but it's easy to trade shifts or get another member of the squad to cover for you during vacations or when you are otherwise unavailable.  We do not have to stay at the Fire House during our shifts; we are notified of emergencies through a pager system.  However we are asked to stay within Harding Township during our shifts.  
Volunteers with night shifts do not have to sleep in the Fire House.