When I call 911 what information should I have available?
When you call 911 a police dispatcher will ask for your location, the nature of the illness or injury, and the age and gender of the person affected.
Based upon the nature of the illness or injury, the dispatcher will ask more specific follow-up questions to determine what resources your emergency requires. While our squad is dispatched for any medical emergency, additional advance life support services may be dispatched if the illness or injury is potentially life-threatening.
How quickly will help arrive?
We strive to meet a standard response time of 10 minutes or less. Response time is measured from the time our volunteers are dispatched (paged) by the 911 dispatch center to the time we arrive on scene. Our volunteers come from home, work, recreational areas and other locations in the community. In the worst winter conditions it may take more than 20 minutes for a volunteer to arrive at our emergency center, respond with an ambulance, and reach your location.
Why did so many people come?
A number of volunteers are paged for each call. They respond to our emergency center from various locations. Most ambulance runs will have 4 or 5 volunteers. On occasion, additional vehicles staffed by volunteers may arrive to assist.
Should I go to the hospital?
Ultimately the decision to be transported to the hospital is yours, or that of a legal guardian. Based upon the information obtained at your location, the ambulance crew may recommend transport. They will help you understand the nature of your injury or illness and the possible implications of not being transported. We will respect your decision, or that of your legal guardian, on whether or not to be transported.
How many calls do you get every year?
In recent years our squad has averaged 350 to 400 calls annually. This average has steadily increased over time.
How many members do you have?
We currently have approximately 30 active members, some of whom are dual members of the Colton Vol. Fire Company, others of whom strictly volunteer for the rescue squad. All members are certified Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT's). With 1 A-EMT and 2 Paramedics.
Is there any charge for your services?
As of November 1, 2002 the Colton Volunteer Rescue Squad began to bill for the provision of emergency medical services. Our billing is done by a third party billing company on a fee-for-service basis.
What does it cost to purchase a new ambulance?
Currently a new ambulance costs approximately $175,000 dollars. Our current ambulances cost between $110,000 and $160,000 dollars depending upon the level of equipment they were purchased with. We typically replace an ambulance every 7-10 years.
How do you raise funds?
We are fortunate to receive local tax support.
The fire company/rescue squad annual meeting approves a budget which is submitted to the Town of Colton for inclusion in the Fire District budget. This budget is approved by the voters at Fire District election in December and becomes part of the Town of Colton budgets.
How do I join?
You can fill out an online application at our
Join page
There are many different types of volunteers needed so don't be discouraged if you can't do it all. We are always in need of Fire Police, Fire Fighters and EMT's as well as auxiliary personnel. Colton Volunteer Rescue Squad, in conjunction with Colton Volunteer Fire Company, provides scholarships to offset the cost of training and certification.
What areas does the Colton Volunteer Rescue Squad cover?
Our primary coverage area includes the Towns of Colton and South Colton, and a portion of the Town of Pierrepont. On occasion we may provide mutual aid to other surrounding communities.
What specific types of incidents do you usually respond to?
We respond to motor vehicle accidents, falls, breathing problems, chest pain, allergic reactions, broken bones, diabetic emergencies, strokes, seizures and many other serious conditions. We also respond to calls where we may end up not transporting anyone to the hospital, but our volunteers respond because the nature of the problem is initially unclear.
Why do people volunteer for the rescue squad?
Our members volunteer for a variety of reasons. Many of us all find our work rewarding and meaningful. When you serve in a local rural small squad you help create a healthier, safer, more responsive community. It can be very satisfying to be on the front lines of healthcare in your community, helping those who are in need. Volunteering for your squad also provides a valuable service learning experience. In return, the Colton Volunteer Rescue Squad provides full paid training for all volunteers and covers the cost of continuing education.
