Four trainee Level 2 emergency medical technicians (EMTs) have completed an ambulance driving course as part of their training with the St John Ambulance and Rescue Service.

Daniel, Tanya, Greg and Jennifer passed the nationally accredited IHCD Emergency Driving Course which covers all the techniques needed to drive ambulances safely and smoothly in emergency situations.

The course includes modules on speed, safety, positioning and night driving. It aims to ensure EMTs and paramedics have the knowledge, confidence and skills to drive in the most efficient and safe manner possible.

The trainees completed the course under the guidance of a driving tutor from the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service. They travelled to the Isle of Wight and mainland UK as part of their training to undertake driving practice with the instructor.

Daniel has also completed the clinical aspect of his training, while Tanya, Greg and Jennifer are due to complete this training next week.

EMTs are often the first healthcare professionals on the scene of an accident or medical emergency. Along with Paramedics, they provide patients with urgent medical treatment and ensure they get to hospital as quickly and safely as possible. This means they need emergency driving skills as well as clinical knowledge.

“EMTs at this level are a vital part of our ambulance service and it’s important that they have the highest quality training. This qualification ensures they are prepared to get to patients during an emergency and means they are one step closer to being fully qualified EMTs,” said Dean De La Mare, Senior Officer at the St John Ambulance and Rescue Service.