EMS Week

 May 18-24, 2003

Theme Underscores Responsiveness of these Lifesavers

"While many Americans are worried about terrorism and weapons of mass destruction, they can feel great comfort knowing that if an event occurs, a heroic league of EMS professionals will be ready to respond to the medical needs of their community," said George Molzen, MD, president of ACEP, the national organizational sponsor of this annual campaign. "It is important for the nation to celebrate EMS Week and recognize these individuals that give their lives to saving ours."

National EMS Week will feature hundreds of grassroots activities coast-to-coast, as well as a national event in Washington, DC, in conjunction with DC Fire & EMS. Activities will be planned around this year's theme, "EMS: When It Matters Most," which underscores the commitment and dedication of the 750,000 EMS providers who serve their communities.

Special Days During the Weeklong Observance

• May 21-Annual Emergency Medical Services for Children Day. This day focuses on drawing national attention to the essential need for specialized emergency care for children to ensure that every child in the nation receives the highest quality emergency care possible-from primary prevention to acute care and rehabilitation.
• May 24-Annual National Moment of Silence. The National EMS Memorial Service in Roanoke, Va., organizes this national event to honor and remember the nation's EMS providers who have made the ultimate sacrifice and given their lives in the line of duty. All EMS and communications agencies participating observe 60 seconds of radio silence on this day at 7 p.m. (EDT). Visit http://nmos.nemsms.org to download a participation packet or email nmosinfo@naemt.org, and receive an auto-response email containing the participation packet.