Learn Lifesaving Skills from Emergency Medical Services Citizens Academy

Virginia Beach residents can learn how to save a life during a free six-week program. The Virginia Beach Department of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) is now accepting applications for its second EMS Citizens Academy. Participants also will become familiar with the day-to-day operations of VB Rescue. 

“The EMS Citizens Academy is an excellent opportunity for Virginia Beach residents to learn how to help those in need and about the VB Rescue system,” said EMS Chief Jason Stroud. “We’re excited to give our community members a unique look into how we serve and provide them with real-world training.” 

EMS Citizens Academy participants will learn about: 

• The Virginia Beach EMS System 
• CPR and AED use (automatic external defibrillator) 
• Bleeding control 
• Modern paramedic skills and training methods 
• How data and science are incorporated into advanced levels of EMS medical care 
• Specialty services such as Tactical Paramedics and the Marine Rescue Team

Participants also will experience hands-on displays and demos of ambulances and specialty response units, tour the Virginia Beach 911 emergency communications center and have an opportunity to ride on a VB Rescue ambulance as an observer. 

“We want to give our community a holistic look at one of the most unique and successful third-service EMS systems in the country,” said Paramedic Derek Fuller, who is managing the program. “Participants get to see behind the scenes and receive practical training to help them save lives.” 

The EMS Citizens Academy will begin Jan. 8, 2025, and will be 6-9 p.m. every Wednesday night at The Bruce W. Edwards VBEMS Headquarters and Training Center, 4160 Virginia Beach Blvd., for six consecutive weeks. The program culminates with a graduation ceremony on Feb. 19, 2025.  

Interested in attending? Apply online at ems.virginiabeach.gov/community/ems-citizens-academy. Applications are due by Nov. 30.  

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