GEMS in Schools

GEMS In Schools

Shaping a Generation of Lifesavers

At Greenwich EMS (GEMS), we believe that empowering students and school staff with life-saving knowledge can make our schools, homes, and communities safer. Through our comprehensive programs, we aim to instill confidence, awareness, and practical skills that can make a difference in critical situations.

Back to Services

Comprehensive Training for School Staff

We understand the vital role school staff, especially nurses, play in the well-being of students. To equip them with necessary emergency skills, we provide CPR and AED training and certification to all school nurses. Our efforts extend to providing Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to every Greenwich public school, funded through grants and town funding. Additionally, we train dedicated response teams at each site in First Aid and CPR, ensuring a swift and efficient response to emergencies.

Greenwich Public School Student Training

Greenwich EMS consistently exceeds the state’s mandated standards for CPR training. Recognizing the vital role of “The Chain of Survival,” we understand the significant impact young adults can have on a friend or family member’s survival before professional care arrives. This is why we prioritize education from a young age, ensuring that those we teach are well-equipped to make a life-saving difference.

6th Grade - Hands Only

All 6th-grade students will receive training in “Hands Only” CPR. During this training, they will learn to distinguish between the signs and symptoms of Cardiac Arrest and Heart Attacks. They will also be taught the proper methods and timing for performing compressions. Instructions on how to execute Abdominal Thrusts will be included, equipping them to aid someone who is choking or even themselves if they are home alone. Upon course completion, students will be awarded a “Certificate of Participation.”

8th Grade - First-Aid

First Aid represents the initial care provided to a person suffering from an illness or injury, administered before advanced medical professionals arrive and take over.

In this course, students will be introduced to the fundamentals of first aid. They will be educated on the most frequent life-threatening emergencies, including how to recognize them, when and how to call for assistance, and how to perform potentially life-saving skills.

Upon meeting the course requirements, 8th-grade students will earn a First Aid Certification from the American Heart Association. This certification can be particularly beneficial for securing summer jobs, as it demonstrates competence in essential emergency care.

10th Grade - CPR / AED

The “Hands Only” CPR course now includes instruction on using the AED machine. This program revisits the knowledge gained in the 6th grade and reviewed in the 8th grade’s First Aid course, but with the added hands-on training with the Automated External Defibrillator. In the Greenwich Public School system, we emphasize consistent skill reinforcement throughout our classes.

12th Grade - Certification Class

Emergencies can occur anywhere and at any time. This course is designed to prepare students for potential cardiac arrest situations and how to respond effectively.

In the Town of Greenwich, every 12th-grade student will be eligible for certification by the American Heart Association in Heartsaver CPR/AED. This certification will be granted once the required class time and practical skills have been successfully completed.

Community Engagement and Awareness

GEMS is an active participant in community-oriented events like Greenwich High School’s Career Days and Health Fairs. We also collaborate in activities hosted by organizations like Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD), promoting health and safety awareness among students.

By nurturing a generation proficient in life-saving skills, we’re creating safer schools and a safer Greenwich. Discover more about the GEMS in Schools program today. Together, let’s shape a generation of lifesavers.