I'm going to go to class to get my EMT certification soon. Is there anything I should buy before joining the first aid squad?

Keep in mind, I'm not looking to outfit a utility belt. I don't need a radio holster and 18 different pairs of shears. Just looking for the basic: "hey, you should probably have this."

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i am glad u want to be an emt.. i took my class back in jan. and it was best thing i ever did,, but my advise would be to start the class and make sure u like it, then start buying stuff from there..just in case u dont like it and u dont waste money.. i had someone in my class who went out and got all these things before the class spent over $500 and dropped the class the 2nd week.. they decided they didnt wanna do it..
Not liking it really isn't much of an option for me. Been a firefighter for a few years and love it. I need my EMT to get hired on a paid department.

I don't plan on spending nearly that much. I was more looking for "get a glove pouch and a pair of shears." just the basics.
Why start out buying all kinds of crap before you know what "YOU" want to carry....?? Yake the class...make a few runs find out what you do and don't have readily available then go from there...Makes more sense to update your trauma bag with what you need/want than to buy it and have to haul it all over God knows where....I will guarantee you one thing....You will loose what you carry...eventually anyways...Been there done that....The only thing I carry now that is mine is a reference guide for backup and my own Stethascope....I leave the rest to our department....Fire is a little different...but same goes...before you become a walking talking toolbox get some calls under your belt....then get what you feel you "NEED"....Stay safe and always remember to keep the faith.......Paul
Do you have any medical training at this point? If not, it might be wise to wait unil you've learned a skill (such as taking BP or listening to lung sounds) before investing in equipment. In other words, don't buy something you haven't been trained to use.

I assume you have had CPR, though, so a pocket mask or other barrier device and a pair of gloves would be great to have handy.
Thanks guys. I really appreciate it. I'm not looking to outfit myself with a trauma bag or anything. I just wanted to make sure I didn't go into the squad and get looks like I'm crazy for not having one thing or another. I'm sure the gloves will be provided by the squad. I'll look into a mask. Thanks again.
You will need your own stethoscope for the class, and you will want your own trust me! Get a good set does not have to be high dollar, just dont go el cheepo either if you want to actually hear something.
I recommend getting a good supply of highlighters in as many different colors as you can! I really used mine for studying my textbook! (I hate taking notes when highlighting will do)
Good call. Thanks.
Find a stethoscope that works well for you. There are several good ones, but plenty of bad ones as well. I also carry a small bag with the basics. I live in a rural area and come across incidents frequently. Good luck on your training.
Hey Adam , I got my EMT in 1980 , so I am old school. I have a holster that carries a pair of shears , a penlight and a window punch . I have carried it from the beginning and will carry one until I retire.You need to feel comfortable with what you need to work any situation . Hope this helps.
Hey Bill, maybe there's a reason that the old school ways stick around. because they work. thanks.
Thats great you are wanting to be an EMT I am from Indiana and i have certified in EMT-B and now am a Advanced EMT. pending where you live i want into ems and before i went into my first day of class the only thing i bought was a stethascyope. good luck on the classes and u will not regret the decison to be an EMT

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