First Response Teams

A large populated rural area surrounds the City of Thunder Bay. This rural area is serviced by a dedicated group of 13 volunteer First Response Teams (see contacts).

These first reponse teams are a vital link in the EMS system. Emergency response times for parmedics to these areas could be in excess of 20 minutes. First Response Teams can have a First Responder on scene in 10 minutes or less resulting in he initiation of Basic Life Support (BLS) care quickly until the arrival of the Advanced Life Support (ALS) paramedics.

Three to the east:
Shuniah, Pass Lake, and Jellicoe which is halfway between Beardmore and Geraldton

Two to the north:
East Gorham and Lappe

Five to the west:
Conmee, Kaministiquia, Connor, Oliver/Paipoonge, and Shabandowan

Three to the south:
Neebing, Gillies and Nolalu

First Response Teams

provide emergency first response services until the arrival of paramedics
provide service to their communities
dedicated volunteers
on call 24/7
respond to medical emergencies, motor vehicle collisions
provide standby support for their fire department during a fire

Training

44 hour Canadian Red Cross First Responder course
mandatory recertification for all team members
each team has their own instructor who has undergone a 20 hour instructor course and a 44 hours co-teach session with another qualified instructor
coorindator oversees all aspectsof the team, including all paperwork submitted to Superior North EMS, maintaining of supplies and reporting to their superiors
training session anywhere from once to four times a month

Superior North EMS

team coordinators report to the Professional Standards division
- Wayne Gates, Deputy Chief Professional Standards
- Tuula Maunula, Professional Standards Support Person
support provided
provide supplies and equipment
provide expertise in the field of emergency care

Because of the dedication of these volunteer First Responders, the lives that have been given a second chance are countless.