PENINSULA – Next week, May 16 through May 22, is Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week. Emergency Medical Services, known more commonly as EMS, is a public safety service, as essential as police and fire services.

EMS an intricate system of agencies and organizations; communications and transportation networks; trauma systems, as well as hospitals, trauma centers, and specialty care centers; rehabilitation facilities; and highly trained professionals – including volunteer and career pre-hospital personnel, physicians, nurses, therapists, administrators, government officials, and an informed public that knows what to do in a medical emergency. Each component in the EMS system has an essential job to perform.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week, which will be celebrated throughout the nation May 16 to May 22. The event brings together local communities and medical personnel to publicize safety and honor the dedication of those who provide the day-to-day lifesaving services of the medical “front line.”

Locally the South Pacific County EMS Council, which includes representation from all local fire departments, Ocean Beach Hospital, Washington State Patrol, Long Beach Police, Pacific County Sheriff’s Department, 911 Dispatch, and the Pacific County Safety Task Force, will be participating in EMS Week.

Representatives from the various EMS agencies will be on hand at the Ocean Beach Hospital Fair scheduled for 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, May 15. Informational booths and activities will focus on health and safety and what to do in an emergency. In addition, bike helmet and car seat inspections will be available. The council will also be sponsoring a coloring contest for students in grades kindergarten through 3rd grade.