Submitted by Debbie Kulick, Bushkill Emergency Corps
Bushkill Emergency Corps Celebrates EMS Week, May 17th to May 23rd, Part of the “Thin White Line”
The “Thin White Line” represents all Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and providers. It is a symbol of skill, dedication, and compassion. It shows respect for EMS professionals. It serves as a tribute to EMS heroes hurt in the line of duty, and honors those who provide a steady presence in emergencies and work to keep communities safe.
Understanding EMS Response and Emergency Calls
When you call 911, you are activating a carefully coordinated emergency response system designed to get help to you as quickly and safely as possible. Behind every emergency call is a team of trained professionals working together to provide lifesaving care.
What Happens When You Call 911?
When you dial 911, your call is answered by a trained dispatcher at a Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP). The dispatcher will:
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Confirm your location
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Ask about the nature of the emergency
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Determine if police, fire, or Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are needed
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Provide pre-arrival instructions if necessary
It’s important to stay calm, answer questions clearly, and remain on the line until the dispatcher tells you it’s okay to hang up.
How EMS Is Dispatched
Once it’s determined that medical assistance is needed, EMS units are immediately dispatched. Depending on the severity of the situation, this may include:
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Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulance
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Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulance
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Fire department first responders
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Specialized response units
Dispatchers use structured call-taking systems to prioritize calls based on urgency. Life-threatening emergencies such as cardiac arrest, severe breathing difficulty, major trauma, or stroke receive the highest priority.
What Happens When EMS Arrives?
EMS professionals are trained to assess, treat, and stabilize patients in a wide range of emergency situations. Upon arrival, they will:
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Perform a rapid assessment
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Begin necessary medical treatment
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Determine whether transport to a hospital is required
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Communicate with receiving hospitals to prepare for arrival
Their primary goal is to deliver immediate care and transport patients safely to the most appropriate facility.
Why Dispatchers Ask So Many Questions
During a stressful moment, it may feel like dispatchers are delaying help by asking questions. In reality, EMS units are often dispatched while the caller is still on the phone.
The questions help:
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Ensure responders bring the correct equipment
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Identify potential scene safety hazards
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Provide lifesaving instructions before arrival (such as CPR guidance)
When Should You Call 911?
Call 911 for emergencies such as:
For non-emergency medical issues, contact your primary care provider, urgent care, or a nurse advice line when appropriate. Keeping 911 available for true emergencies helps ensure the fastest response for those who need it most.
A Community Partnership
Effective emergency response is a partnership between the community and EMS professionals. Knowing when to call, staying calm, and providing accurate information helps responders do their job effectively.
Behind every emergency call is a dedicated team committed to protecting the health and safety of our community—24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Bushkill Emergency Corps joins with our mutual aid partners in providing emergency medical services through the Monroe County and Pike County Control Centers (Dispatch Centers).
