Chatham County Fire Department is designated as an EMS Initial Education Program at the Advanced EMT (AEMT), EMT, and EMR levels. Although this designation was awarded previously, it remains a significant accomplishment for our department and continues to strengthen the quality of service we provide to the community. This recognition allows Chatham Fire to deliver state-approved EMS education in-house, creating a direct and efficient pathway for developing high-quality emergency medical providers. By training personnel within the department, we ensure our responders gain the clinical skills, practical experience, and confidence needed to deliver exceptional care on every call.

Through this designation, Chatham Fire can offer Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), and Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) programs. These levels progress from foundational life-saving skills to advanced emergency care, including patient assessment, airway management, medication administration, and real-world scenario training. Each program is structured to prepare students for national certification and the demands of field operations, ensuring a highly capable and well-prepared emergency response team.

The ability to provide EMS education locally brings tremendous benefits to Chatham County. It improves access to qualified EMS providers, strengthens career pathways for both new and current personnel, allows for faster onboarding and field readiness, and supports consistent, department-specific training standards. Most importantly, it enhances the level of prehospital care available to our citizens, reinforcing Chatham Fire’s commitment to public safety and high-quality emergency response.

Our training approach emphasizes hands-on skills labs, scenario-based learning, live simulations, and ride-along opportunities. Instruction is delivered by experienced educators and field professionals who prioritize practical application and critical thinking. This approach ensures students are not only knowledgeable but fully prepared for the challenges they will face in real emergencies.