"the People's Paths!" Cherokee News Path - CNEMS Prgram Graduates First Responders

***"Cherokee Nation EMS Program Graduates"***

TAHLEQUAH, OKLAHOMA – The Cherokee Nation recently provided first response training to several local community members, including several volunteer firefighters, making way for additional first responders in the area as part of the tribe’s good community partner initiative.

“We realize the importance of proper life-saving training for members of our community,” said Chad Smith, Cherokee Nation Principal Chief. “This is an additional way we can help ensure the safety of our citizens and members of our community.”

First Responder courses allow participants to learn how to save a person’s life through basic life support with minimal equipment until medical personnel can arrive on the scene. Once the course has been completed, students can become nationally registered at the first responder level.

Tracy Glory, critical care paramedic and advanced training instructor for Cherokee Nation EMS, teaches first responder courses for the tribe.

“Cherokee Nation EMS really values the first responders for their dedication and commitment to responding to emergency situations in their communities,” Glory said. “They will be the first to respond to an incident within their communities when emergency medical personnel are on the way, and help the patient until more definitive care can be given. Lives are being saved because of this response. They do make a difference.”

A total of 20 students from Cherokee, Adair, Sequoyah and Mayes counties completed this six-week course. A first responder medical kit was given to each participant who passed this course.

For more information on enrollment in future Cherokee Nation EMS training programs, call 918-453-5200 or send e-mail to: emstraining@cherokee.org