These people aren't "drivers", they're more than that...Before an E.M.T. can be promoted to an "operator" position, they must pass numerous checks and demonstrate proficiency in multiple areas.

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Prerequisites

The prerequisite to begin driver training includes at being at least 19 years of age, having at least 1 year experience as an E.M.T., the completion of the "Coaching the Emergency Vehicle Operator (CEVO)" 4 hour classroom course, have no infractions on their driving abstract from the DMV, and much more.

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The Process

Once a member starts training, it usually takes between 3-6 months to be cleared. This involve the completion of a 13-page operator training packet, at least 12 hours of non-emergency and emergent road time (without a patient), and 3 evaluations from Field Training Officers. At the end of all this, a "check ride" with an Officer for final clearance. 

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The training packet goes over everything and anything you could or would ever need to know, not only to operate the ambulance, but to troubleshoot equipment, operate the radios, learn every roadway in the town and each development, and most important of all, become the leader of the crew. 

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The Cone Course

The first step after your classroom CEVO course is the cone course. Here candidates can get a feel for the apparatus, become comfortable with driving in tight conditions, and most important make mistakes...Now is the time, rather then on the open road. 

 

This course consists of multiple different skill stations to test the operator candidate's skills and confidence while under pressure. The course consists of 6 different stations, some of which must be completed forward and reverse, without striking any cones...all in under 5 minutes. The stations are:

1. The narrowing alley (forward and reverse)

2. The offset alley or lane change

3. The serpentine (forward and reverse)

4. The "k-turn" in confined space

5. The parallel parking

6. The alley docking

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Some of this may look "tight" but that's because the cones are only 8.2 feet wide in some places and the ambulance is is about 8 feet wide, so it doesn't like much space.  

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Below, watch an operator candidate on their attempt. This person, just an hour before, had never driven anything larger than a Honda Civic. Now, they are operating a 9-ton, 25 foot long ambulance like a pro.