First Aid Squad Seeks New Members

is seeking new members to join the volunteer medical organization.

The squad, which was established in 1939, responds to medical calls in Kinnelon, Butler, Bloomingdale. Volunteers respond to about 1,500 calls per year.

Hazel Whitty, co-chairman of the squad's membership committee, said there are three kinds of members: probationary members, members and exempt members. The probationary membership is designed to help new members learn about the field by training with two experienced members of the squad. Exempt membership is granted to individuals who have been with the squad for an extended amount of time.

"After so many years, [exempt members] don't have to ride anymore," Whitty said.

To be a member of the squad, volunteers must be older than 18 years old and out of high school, have a valid New Jersey driver's license and be willing to take EMT certification courses. However, teen membership is also available for volunteers ages 15-21.

Volunteers are required to work a minimum of 24 hours per month and attend business and instructional meetings. They are also required to take a First Responder course, which is being held starting in January on Mondays, Wednesday and Saturdays.

Those interested in volunteering should contact Hazel Whitty at 973-634-4257 or hwhitty@optonline.net.