Johnson Lake EMS began in January 1980 by receiving a grant from the State of Nebraska. Twenty-five people began training as First Responders. While training, members engrossed themselves in planning ways to fund this new service. Several members went door-to-door asking for $100 donations, while others planned and sold tickets to raffle a car as a fund-raising event. Others hit the media and informed the public of this new service. By May 1980, the squad had raised $15,000 which purchased radio and medical equipment. They graduated from First Responder class and began volunteering for the sick and injured of Johnson Lake.
The squad now has 22 active members. We serve the Johnson Lake and surrounding area. We respond to calls around the lake and care for patients until the Lexington Volunteer Fire Department or the Elwood Volunteer Fire Department arrives to transport the patient to Tri-County Hospital in Lexington, Nebraska.
Our ambulance is solely a first response equipment transport vehicle. This vehicle is equipped with a defibrillator, oxygen, trauma supplies, and pediatric equipment. When we receive a call, members respond with the vehicle as well as their own vehicles. In addition, all members carry oxygen, masks, blood pressure cuffs, stethoscopes, dressings, bandages, and other equipment necessary for illness and trauma calls, to respond with the basics in emergency care.
The members of the Johnson Lake EMS are very proud of our history. We began with nothing, knowing very little about the world of EMS. In time, we grew to be respected by our peers and community. We are giving back to the community by volunteering our time to help those in need.
EMS Prayer:
As I perform my duty Lord
Whatever be the call,
Help to guide and keep me safe
From dangers big and small.
I want to serve and do my best
No matter what the scene,
I pledge to keep my skills refined,
My judgement quick and keen.
This calling to give of my self
Most do not understand,
But I stand ready all the time
To help my fellow man.
To have the chance to help a child
Restore his laugh with glee,
A word of thanks I might not hear,
But knowing is enough for me.
The praise of men is fine for some,
But I feel truly blessed,
That you oh Lord have chosen me
To serve in EMS!
L. Lipps