FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                             June 14, 2006

Release ESD-03-06

HONOLULU EMERGENCY SERVICES DEPARTMENT

 SET TO KICK OFF 2^ND ANNUAL JUNIOR PARAMEDIC PROGRAM

The City’s Emergency Medical Services division is set to begin the second year of their unique and innovative Junior Paramedic program. Twenty-five students are preparing to get an up-close and personal look at the paramedic’s profession this summer as members of the City’s Junior Paramedic class.

 “This is a fantastic opportunity for students to get involved, learn some lifesaving skills and check out a possible future career,” said Dr. Elizabeth Char, City Emergency Services Director. “There aren’t many opportunities like this that allow students to get a first hand view of how the 911 system and public safety responders work.”

Under a team of paramedics led by Junior Paramedic Program Director, Ian Santee, the students learn through classroom instruction as well as field trips that include direct interaction with paramedics, emergency medical personnel, and other 911 responders.  Participants range in age from 14 to 17 years old.  The four-week program will begin on June 19 with completion set for July 14.  The classes run Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Contact:

Ian Santee, Junior Paramedic Program Director, 285-7044

Bryan Cheplic, HESD Public Information Officer, 831-4383