YoungMedic

Our EMS dept required us to switch to our secondary lights while on scene. I agree with the article that was posted, with the exception of the comment about what good does it do for Police Officers to have their lights on when on a traffic stop. Yes, even as Law Enforcement we were taught about the new theory of reducing the amount of Emergency Lighting on scene. However the thing I disagree with in the article states something to the effect that having those lights on during a traffic stop doesn't help the officer. I disagree. Emergency Lighting is a benefit to Police Officers while on a traffic stop for the same reason it is not a benefit at accident scenes. It is distracting to the occupants of the pulled over vehicle. It gives Law Enforcement a "shield" to hide behind while writing out a ticket or whatever it is we may need to do when we get back into our patrol vehicle. It doesn't distract us from viewing the inside of a violators vehicle. Just my view, and the police academy's view. Maybe it's time to rethink it...

You also have to think about the traffic around you. I was in a car with my mother driving when she was pulled over for something (she didn't get any points, just a tiny fine). While stopped there was a three car MVC from the gapers block caused by all of those flashing lights. I understand the danger involved in traffic stops, but there should be a happy medium between protecting the officer from risks in front and not distracting drivers to the rear.

Just doing some research on jersey ems companies......

I'm applying for a volunteer tech rescue/EMS company. They have rescue ambulances that carry extrication equipment and will give you all of the required rescue training. I have met some of the people in it and they all seem like they'd be great to work with. If you are looking for a part time volunteer job, Jersey is not always a bad place to start.

So when do you use smelling salts versus painful response? When I deal with an ETOH I usually use a sternal rub. When I was doing rotations in the hospital I saw the nurses use ammonia inhalents on the drunks and they would respond in a similar way to a good 'ole rub on the sternum.

Oh dude! That is inspired right there! You had better copyright that one fast before it shows up in the New York Times!

First the NYT would have to take an interest in EMS.