LAMAR COUNTY, MISS. (WDAM) – Lamar County Life Guard Ambulance Service is preparing to welcome three new emergency medical technicians to its crew

But before they can be brought in, the trio must master one last skill: driving an ambulance.

Friday’s emergency vehicle course concluded a week of administrative onboarding for the group of new hires.

With just a few traffic cones, Temple Baptist Church’s parking lot was transformed into a course to simulate the everyday challenges emergency medical technicians and paramedics face when operating an ambulance.

Leaders said this is an essential skill that many people don’t think about when it comes to emergency medical preparedness.

“Driving in EMS is unique because you are responsible for two people besides yourself,” said EMT Aaron Miles. “Most of the time, if you have people carpooling, it’s you.

“However, in the back of an ambulance, your paramedic or another EMT may be working on your patient, or the patient may be uninsured, whether it unlocks or what have you. And it’s your responsibility to make sure they get to the hospital safe and sound.”

Although some schools offer emergency driving training as part of their EMT curriculum, all new hires for Lamar County Life Guard Ambulance Service must take the course as well as refresher courses every two years.

The company is still looking to fill part-time and full-time positions. Licensed EMTs and Paramedics can visit the company’s website, Hereand search for “Lamar County” in the career portal.

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