First Responders deserve thanks during EMS week This is Emergency Medical Services Week. In a world flooded with designated weeks, many of these weeks go unnoticed. Those involved in emergency medical services deserve recognition. They are lifesavers. Portage County's emergency medical system is a model in the state. This is one of the few northern counties in the state with a paramedic system. The doctors and nurses at St. Michael's Hospital are dedicated to their work. But there's more to the system. The core of the emergency medical system is the first responder program. These are the individuals who respond to emergencies when they are reported. They are the key to quick response. Several municipalities have first responder programs. Those programs operate in Almond, Amherst, Bancroft, the town of Grant, Junction City, McCain Foods, Plover, Rosholt, the town of Stockton and Wild Rose. However, there are others that don't, such as the towns of Hull, Dewey and Sharon. And the towns of New Hope, Belmont and Lanark have only partial coverage from other municipalities. The first responder program is important but it suffers from high attrition. Every year about 20 percent of the first responders quit. That turnover is understandable. Their volunteer work involves personal sacrifice, for which the responders may receive a small stipend. Many of the first responders work eight hours a day in a normal job, then "go on duty" for emergency calls. They may be called out late at night or early in the morning. When the call comes at 3 a.m. on a snow, subzero day, they respond. They risk injury when going to an emergency. They do it to support their community. It takes effort and commitment. They certainly deserve the thanks and recognition of a grateful community. – Gene Kemmeter