Question 1

How do I join CVRS?

Accepted Answer

Simply fill out an application and do a background check. You will be voted in pending the results of the background check.

Question 2

Where do I get an application from?

Accepted Answer

You can download our application on our website under the documents page or you can contact us by phone (804) 529-6630 or email callaovrs@gmail.com and we can meet you, mail it to you, or email it to you.

Question 3

How do I get my background check done?

Accepted Answer

First you must create an OEMS account if you don't have one already. This can be done here https://vdhems.vdh.virginia.gov/emsapps/f?p=200:16. Next you'll need to affiliate with our agency (Callao Rescue Squad, Inc. 00278).  Then schedule an appointment with Field Print to complete the fingerprinting process. The instructions can be found here https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/emergency-medical-services/regulations-compliance/fingerprinting/volunteer-non-certified-member-e-g-driver/. The closest Field Print Location is in Warsaw, VA and this process is free of charge.

Question 4

How long does it take for my fingerprints to come back?

Accepted Answer

Usually within a couple weeks

Question 5

What can I do while I'm waiting for the results of my background check?

Accepted Answer

In the meantime, you can come participate in training so you will be ready to run calls as soon as your background check comes back clear! You are also still able to participate in community events.

Question 6

What training is required of me to be able to join?

Accepted Answer

You don't have to have any prior training, however, we will provide the necessary training for you, such as CPR and EVOC. CPR is the only mandatory training we require, but we do highly recommend you getting EVOC or an EMT certification.

Question 7

What is expected of me when I join?

Accepted Answer

After your fingerprints come back approved and you are voted in, you are on a 3 month probationary period whereas you are expected to perform 24 duty hours per month and attend 6 meetings and 6 trainings per year, as well as running an average of 1 call per month.

Question 8

Where do I go when a call comes in?

Accepted Answer

Depends on where you live. If you live closer to the scene, you may go there AFTER an EMT or the ambulance gets there first. Otherwise, come to the building.

Question 9

How do I get my 24 hours/month done?

Accepted Answer

When you are "on call" this means that you are able to go on a call if we get one. Your on call hours can either be done at home (if you live in the area) or at the building. Running calls, coming to training and meetings, standby's, participating in events, ect. all count towards your 24 hours.

Question 10

What if EMS isn't for me but I still want to help out?

Accepted Answer

No problem! EMS isn't for everyone, but you can join our auxiliary program which allows you to still help out during our fundraising events and community events we have!

Question 11

What is my responsibility when on a call?

Accepted Answer

Depending on what you level of certification determines what your responsibilities are. If you have no certification (that is, not an EMT), your responsibility is to fill out the demographic portion of our paper patient care report (patient's name, date of birth, ect.), helping with patient care as you go through training, lifting patients (if able), and cleaning the stretcher, ambulance, ect.

Question 12

Can I tell my friends/family about calls I go on?

Accepted Answer

To some extent, but be careful what you say. Under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) all patient information must remain confidential. This means you should never share their name, address, or medical history with anybody.

Question 13

Will I see a lot of blood working on an ambulance?

Accepted Answer

It's not too common to see a lot of blood on calls.

Question 14

What if a call comes out and I'm not "on duty?""

Accepted Answer

You can still go! You don't have to be on duty to run a call.

Question 15

What if I can't make it to the meetings or trainings?

Accepted Answer

If you are working, in school, or active military, you are excused from the meetings and training.

Question 16

What if I'm not sure if I want to be a member?

Accepted Answer

If you're not sure if you'll like it or not, you can become a ride-along. A ride-along goes on calls to observe. There is a form you must fill out. You can find it under the documents page.

Question 17

What do I wear when responding to a call?

Accepted Answer

Ideally, you should wear a CVRS shirt and pants or shorts that aren't too short (use common sense) and closed toe shoes. We offer lockers to allow you to keep an extra set of clothes and shoes for when going to calls.

Question 18

How fast can I drive when responding to a call?

Accepted Answer

Whatever the speed limit is. You won't be able to help the patient if you are involved in an accident yourself or get stopped by law enforcement.

Question 19

What equipment is supplied to me when I join?

Accepted Answer

After getting voted in and your background check comes back clear, you will receive a t-shirt, jacket, a CVRS license plate, a radio or pager and a charger. If you want an emergency light for your vehicle you can buy it from Amazon for relatively cheap, but it must be solid red or red and white.

Callao Volunteer

Rescue Squad

Frequently asked questions