Full Notification

ROCKFORD – May 18, 2010 – The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has designated May 16 through May 22, 2010, as EMS (Emergency Medical Services) Week. The theme for this year is “EMS: Anytime. Anywhere. We’ll be there.”

The IDPH, with assistance from OSF NIEMS System and the YMCA, will offer blood pressure checks Monday through Friday during the week of May 17-21. Residents may have their blood pressure checked at two locations, either on the Bike Path near the YMCA, or inside the YMCA Lobby. Scheduled times will be from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm.

On Monday, May 17, 2010, Mayor Morrissey will announce the Proclamation for EMS Week at the City Council meeting. Nine EMS providers from the Rockford Fire Department will be recognized for their service as paramedics to the department and community. In addition, seven Emergency Dispatchers from the department’s 911 Center will be recognized for their service to the department and to their community.

Each person will be given a certificate from the IDPH for their years of service, ranging from 15 to 30 years of service.

On Wednesday, May 19, 2010, at OSF Saint Anthony Hospital, 5666 E. State Street, in the Foundation Room, all former patients of EMS services will be able to meet the EMS personnel and firefighters that came to their aid.

There will be two cardiac arrest survivors and a victim that was rescued from a house fire attending this event, along with numerous department personnel that had a role in these incidents (please see May 13, 2010 press release “Firehouse Magazine Heroism Award”). Light refreshments will be served at the event.

This recognition ceremony will begin at 6:00 pm.