I just realized that my first time as driver for the squad was a year ago, in early December 2014. It's been a very interesting a year as a volunteer, and I thought I'd share a bit more about the experience.

As I mentioned in my introductory post, I had several motivations for joining the squad. Admittedly, I also had a lot of trepidation -- lives are in the balance here at times, and I had zero healthcare background save a CPR course when I was a lifeguard back in my high school and college days.

In talking to members at the 2014 Labor Day Carnival, I was surprised to learn that the squad accepted non-EMT members, and that I could make a sizable contribution to the community simply by being able to respond and drive the ambulance. While it required some investment in time and energy, getting myself re-certified with the American Heart Association's CPR for Healthcare Providers program, and taking the Coaching for Emergency Vehicle Operators [CEVO] course, both were completed in short order.

And I learned the most important lesson of all.... personal safety comes first.