EMT Classes/Certifcation

[homaltro_104]

Hi everyone.

I'm an explorer with the Quincy Fire Dept.
16 years old.

I was wondering if anyone out there knows the
State of Illinois's policy on EMT certification
for people under 18 years of age?




Thanks so much for your time!

Sincerly,
Explorer Adam Weisenberger
Post 104 Quincy, Illinois

[ChiefReason]

Adam:
I believe that you must be 18 to take EMT classes. That does not preclude you from taking CPR, advanced first aid and such. But you cannot be an EMT in Illinois unless you are 18 or older.
Perhaps, Jaybird knows for sure.
Jay?
CR

[jaybird210]

The esteemed Chief is correct. IDPH used to let you take the class and wait till your 18th to test, but they won't even do that any more.

Good idea to get your CPR covered (recerting is easier and faster than the first pull) and if you can find and feel like taking a first responder course, go ahead and take that. If you're bright enough, and the local community college will let you, consider taking (or at least auditing) an anatomy and physiology course. You won't need it for EMT-B, but will help. And it will help like the dickens if you go on to paramedic. Otherwise, just sit back and wait for it. You'll be glad you did; just don't lose interest!

[ADSNWFLD]

I agree with jay if you can get some college classes out of the way because once you are doing the job it is much harder to go back.

Biology, A&P will help you in school.

[homaltro_104]

I do have a Red Cross First Aid and CPR cert.


THANKS SO MUCH for clearing that stuff up for me.
I REALLY Appreciate it!

CR
Jay <- You Guys Rock!
ADSNWFLD

[ChiefReason]

holmatro:
You know; not only do we rock, but we also roll!
It's always enjoyable to communicate with someone willing to take the time to learn.
You have a strong base from which to start. You'll only get better.
Watch, listen, learn!;)
Take care and stay safe.
CR

[btroutm]

Adam:
I just wanted to let you know about a "loop-hole" I found in Illinois law. The EMS Act states that a person must be 18 to take the state exam (I don't know how the national works). However, this act also states that a waiver can be filed with Leslee Stein-Spencer (Chief of EMS in Illinois). She will most likely not let you become an EMT-B until you're 18, but she can be convinced to let you take the class and the test. I know because I became an EMT-B this way. I took the class at a local community college while I was in high school and took the state test while I was still 17. On my 18th birthday my card was sent to me. This helped because I didn't have to wait to take the test and for the results to come back. If you want to pursue this course, e-mail me and I can send you some info to help get the ball rolling. Good luck!

-Bruce