Paramedic Initiates Outreach to Lifeguards

Essex-Windsor EMS paramedic Teresa Coulter’s career path started on the pool deck and now she is reaching out to other young lifeguards to show them why their jobs are perfect springboards to her current job.

“I think lifeguarding is a natural start for those interested in becoming a paramedic,” said Coulter, who worked as a lifeguard, pool/deck coordinator and aquatic supervisor for 13 years before joining Essex-Windsor EMS. “They are involved in extensive rescue training, first aid and CPR, and have regular emergency situational training throughout the year.”

Coulter saw an opportunity to make valuable connections and inspire future paramedics. After receiving approval and encouragement from Essex-Windsor EMS leadership, she reached out to municipal pool operators in Windsor and Essex County, offering to speak to lifeguards about what paramedics do and the training they require.

From Dec. 16 to Jan. 6, she made 12 presentations to a total of approximately 375 lifeguards with the City of Windsor at the Windsor International Aquatic and Training Centre, the Town of LaSalle at the Vollmer Complex, the Town of Essex at the Essex Recreation Complex and the Municipality of Lakeshore at the Atlas Tube Recreation Centre.

The 30-minute presentations, which included time for the lifeguards to ask questions, took place during their quarterly training. Coulter said she was pleased with the response and would be happy to do presentations for other interested groups.

Out of curiosity, she did an informal poll of her Essex-Windsor EMS colleagues and 30 paramedics responded that they had worked as lifeguards at some point.

“So, it seems like a great recruitment opportunity,” Coulter said. “I also believe that it’s a good opportunity to foster these relationships with our municipal partners and make an impression on young workers that we may end up interacting with in an emergency situation.”

This is the first time Essex-Windsor EMS has conducted a public outreach targeting lifeguards.

“Teresa did more than come up with a fantastic idea for building connections with community partners and potential future paramedics,” said Chief Justin Lammers. “She developed a plan and exceeded expectations when she carried it out. Teresa’s initiative and enthusiasm are inspiring, and she is to be commended for being an outstanding Essex-Windsor EMS representative.”