Always remember that being a first responder carries great responsibility. The Millburn Short Hills Volunteer First Aid Squad has provided 24/7 basic life support services for more than 60 years. The MSHVFAS cadet program is an important part of our mission to serve and educate our community. We are pleased that you are considering joining the program and expect you will find the experience both supremely satisfying and highly enjoyable. 

This agreement summarizes cadets’ responsibilities so you understand what the Squad expects of cadets. The Squad will sponsor your formal EMT education and provide ongoing training and experience. The cadet advisers agree to help you complete EMT school and pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians exam. Nobody tackles this program alone. 

While many cadets’ parents want to be involved in the selection process, we rely on the initiative and hard work of the cadets. If you’re going to be responsible for your riding shifts, your uniform, EMT school, the NREMT exam and patient care, you need to be able to manage the selection process on your own. Any questions can be directed to cadetinfo@mshvfas.org. 

If selected, you agree:

1. I will register for, and complete, an OEMS-certified EMT course as soon as school schedule and eligibility permit. Cadets must successfully pass the course no later than the start of the school year in which they begin riding with the Squad. I understand that the EMT course is comprised of 200 hours of class and clinical work, approximately equal to two college courses, and requires perfect attendance, with limited ability to make up a missed class. 
2. On completion of the EMT course, I will promptly register for the NREMT exam. I agree to notify the cadet advisers if I fail any section exam in EMT class or feel I’m having difficulty understanding the material in class. I understand that, to remain in the cadet program, I must pass the exam by the earlier of (i) 60 days of completing the EMT course and (ii) September 30 of the year in which I begin riding. I understand that I may be released from the cadet program if I cannot pass the NREMT exam in three attempts. 
3. I confirm that I do not have any physical or mental disabilities or limitations that would interfere with my ability to fulfill my squad duties, which may include working at night, lifting and moving patients and providing medical care in emergencies. 
4. If my schedule permits, I will begin riding as an observer with my crew once I have reached the halfway point in the EMT course. I understand that riding as an observer provides early hands-on experience and facilitates the training and transition of one cadet class to the next.
5. I will be on time and in uniform for my assigned shifts. I understand my regular weekly shift is a 4-to-6-hour commitment and that I will also have periodic training and 12-hour Saturday/Sunday shifts on rotation. If a conflict arises, I am responsible for finding another cadet to ride in my place and, in any event, will promptly notify my crew chief. I agree to remind my replacement about our arrangement to ensure that they show up as scheduled.
6. I will observe the state and Squad protocols for patient care. I understand that I represent the Squad while I am in uniform and the Squad expects all EMTs to exhibit compassion and professionalism in fulfilling our mission.
7. I will attend cadet training and Squad continuing education opportunities unless my absence is excused for good reason. I will notify the cadet captain and cadet adviser of any planned absences.
8. I understand that school comes first and squad activities cannot cause my grades to suffer. If I’m overwhelmed or struggling to balance my responsibilities I will reach out to my crew chief, the cadet advisers or the captain.
9. I understand that my mental health is a priority. If I’m feeling overwhelmed or stress is affecting my daily life, I will come to an adult member and ask for help. 
10. I understand that, under no circumstances is a cadet permitted to operate an ambulance. This includes driving or sitting in the driver’s seat of a running ambulance.

I understand that any violation of this agreement may result in my dismissal from the Millburn Short Hills Volunteer First Aid Squad’s cadet program.