People are being invited to stop by King Edward VII Memorial Hospital (KEMH) this week to meet “ordinary heroes” emergency medical technicians (EMTs).The Island’s first week devoted to Emergency Medical Services was launched on Mondayby Acting Health Minister Michael Weeks.Aside from an information table in the KEMH lobby, there will be an emergency medical open house at the hospital’s parking lot, on the corner of Berry Hill and Point Finger Roads. Open from 10am to 2pm until Thursday, the open house includes tours of ambulances and other emergency vehicles.Aside from visiting schools, EMTs will give talks on situations they have to confront, including road accidents and gun incidents, and give tips to the public on helping emergency staff.These presentations take place between 1pm to 2pm in the hospital’s Montrose Cottage classroom across from the emergency department.Mr Weeks hailed EMTs as a vital public service. He said: “Members are ready to provide lifesaving care to those in need 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Access to quality emergency care dramatically improves the survival and recovery rate of those who experience sudden illness or injury. Never before have these services been more vital or relevant to our lives.”Bermuda Hospitals Board (BHB) clinical director of critical care Lynette Raynor said there are now 27 EMTs working for the hospital, 13 of whom are now qualified to administer emergency medications.She said: “BHB has a fleet of recently upgraded ambulances that feature the latest technology and design, while maintaining a small size to navigate Bermuda’s narrow roads. Our EMTs work closely with emergency department staff, as well as with fire and police team members and respond to an average of 5,000 calls each year.”BHB chief EMT Raymond Santucci said that most choose a tough job because they want to help others in need.He said: “We are pleased to have an opportunity this week to emphasise the importance of safety and we invite members of the public to meet with us and learn how they can make our jobs easier, while keeping everyone in Bermuda safe.”l Useful web link: www.bermudahospitals.bm