First Responder Education Programs (VEFR & EMR)
Email training@brsvt.org with questions
General course information
Individuals enrolled in one of these programs are often looking to support local EMS by becoming an entry-level first responder, evaluating if they are interested in pursuing EMT education, or are seeking healthcare experience.
Class Location: 120 McKinley Street, Bennington, VT 05201
Course Lab Instructor(s): BRS VT EMS Instructor/Coordinators (IC), Lab kill Instructors, CPR Instructors, or licensed EMS clinicians
Course Coordinator & Oversight: Bill Camarda, VT EMS Senior Instructor Coordinator # 103047
VEFR or EMR?
The Vermont Emergency First Responder, abbreviated VEFR, is a basic first response program. Our program consists of 30 hours of pre-course work, mainly FEMA hazardous materials awareness and incident command online courses, followed by a 7-8 hour hands-on lab day to learn and practice skills and scenarios.
Most organizations have VEFR certified personnel act as first responders or drivers for an ambulance crew, partnered with a licensed EMT or higher. This level of care is based on an expanded First Aid, CPR, & AED program and is limited in both assessment and care in their scope of practice.
This is an ideal level of training for those considering further EMS or emergency medicine education.
The Emergency Medical Responder, abbreviated EMR, is a first responder with expanded scope of practice compared to a VEFR. Our program consists of about 92 hours of independent study, in class review, and lab days.
EMRs often act as first responders or ambulance crew members. In VT, EMRs may drive or assist another licensed EMT or higher with patient care during transport. This level of care has vital sign assessment, pulse oximetry, basic airway and breathing care, and professional level CPR.
Graduates of the program must sit for a computer-based national certifying exam from the National Registry of EMTs to obtain a license in VT and many other states.
Frequently asked questions:
Q: Are there student requirements?
A: Yes. Students must be in good health, able to lift 50 pounds unassisted, and squat / bend / kneel for prolonged periods of time. Students cannot have a criminal or protected class registry history. Students must be able to travel to and from Bennington Rescue. Students must be proficient at the 10th grade math, reading, and science (biology, anatomy) level.
Q: I already have obligations the same time as the in-person class session date, can I make up the session another time?
A: No. Do not sign up for the program if you know you already have a conflict. The in person class session must be attended on time for the entire time. Missing the in person day results in dismissal from the program. You may not be on call, actively working, etc. during the in person class day.
Q: Is there an age limit for VEFR or EMR?
A: Yes. To become a VEFR or EMR in VT the student must be 16 years old. Students aged 14-15 are welcome but will be ineligible for a VT EMS certificate/license.
Q: Does completing the education program certify me as a VEFR or EMR?
A: No. After course completion you must be affiliated with a VT EMS agency, file an electronic application submitting the completion certificates from the course, and be approved by your VT ambulance/first response agency head of service and VT EMS.
If you have any questions please email: training@brsvt.org
