Free EMT training offered by Citizens EMS, AK Health Foundation

Two Harrison groups are taking aim at the depleted ranks of local EMTs by providing $20,000 in free training.

The Alle-Kiski Health Foundation and Citizen’s Hose EMS will host a 16-week course open to everyone, even those with no experience.

“You can come in on day one, know nothing, and, in 16 weeks, you’ll be certified,” said John Pastorek, foundation executive director.

“Any of us could have an emergency and if there’s no EMTs to get there, that’s a problem. If we can get 20 more EMTs in this community, it’s worth it.”

Up to 20 students will receive free tuition, thanks in part to a state grant that was secured with help from state Sen. Lindsey Williams. Money was made available through the Department of Community and Economic Development.

The state grant of $99,000 will be split among a dozen EMS services in Williams’ District.

Each group will receive an amount based on population.

Only two EMS services in the Alle-Kiski Valley will receive money: Citizens and Eureka Fire Rescue EMS in Tarentum. Each is getting $5,000 to use toward the training program.

Pastorek said the foundation will cover the balance of the project.

“The nice thing is that it is for anybody in the community,” Citizens EMS Supervisor Jim Erb said.

The training can apply to volunteer firefighters who want to expand their response capabilities or someone fresh out of high school who is looking for a career.

“This teaches someone who has no medical training at all to become a state-licensed first responder.”

Instructors will be certified EMS personnel from Citizens. Classes will be held at the foundation, which is headquartered off Route 908. The newly renovated facility has a conference room for such community events.

Pastorek, involved in the nonprofit’s mission for 25 years, cited a “severe lack” of EMTs throughout the state and said one of the hurdles is the cost of training.

“We’re happy to help do this,” Pastorek said. “We think this is a great partnership.”