New EMT seeking some advice.

[Structureboi86]

Hey guys,

I was actually certified last summer and I wasn't really able to open some time up to make use of the certification. But now since I have time, I want to start applying for ambulances. The major ambulance company near where I live (bay area) is AMR and I was just wondering if jumping to such a private company is a smart thing to do? Or should I go for the smaller companies that does the BLS care and transportation? Just to give some background information, I worked at an amuesmant park for about 3 months until the season was over and I did various events basically to provide care to people during community events and whatnot. (It's not that much experience though). My age is 19 years old too. (20 coming this november). I called some of the ambulance companies (AMR never responded back to me) and all of them said that they don't let employees drive or basically get on the rig until they are 21 because of insurance situations. Do you think it's even worth it to apply if the companies that surround my area do not let employees drive if their under 21? What jobs would they have open for me?

I know my writing could be very hard to understand since it's all cluttered and I do apologize for that. But I was just hoping that you guys can help me as much as possible.

Thanks

Patrick

[TechMedic05]

I know AMR, in the NorthEast anyways, will hire at about 18. They have a tendancy to 'lose' paperwork, so be persistant and keep calling them. "Bay Area" - which state?

I know in at least two instances, people looking to be hired just 'showed up' at orientation with the appropriate paperwork, and no one asked any questions. I DO NOT advise this. Don't do it. Ever. Really. But keep on them.

[madmedic8522]

as far as i know in MO.....you have to be 18 to work on 911 trucks, but the privates will not let you drive until your 21. they will let you tech on basic trucks. around eastern MO (St Louis) working for a private is your best bet in your situation to get experience while your furthering your education. hope this helps.

madmedic8522

[streetsmart]

My service, which is an ambulance district (public - tax supported) has an age requirement of 25 (insurance company requirement), but several surrounding services accept 18 y/o who are licensed. These include public and private services.

[Structureboi86]

I'm from the bay area, California..particularly in San Francisco. Yea i'll probably apply for AMR but not really expect to get hired because they seem to hire a lot more older type of peopel ahha..like 25ish range. But yea we'll see...and i'll apply for all the private companies I can.

Thanks for the help.

Patrick