STURGIS, S.D. – This year marks the 50th anniversary of the first National EMS Week, and Sturgis Ambulance will commemorate this milestone with a week full of events celebrating its dedicated EMS professionals from May 19 to 25.
“As we commemorate those who have come before us, challenging the status quo and raising the bar, we also look forward to building on their efforts and committing ourselves to a future where the next generation of EMS professionals can continue to serve their communities with excellence,” said Sturgis Ambulance Service Director Shawn Fischer.
National EMS Week Events Schedule:
Monday, May 20: Open House & Battle of the Badge Blood Drive
- Open House: Join Sturgis EMS as they kick off EMS Week with an Open House, showcasing the importance of EMS in the community. Local businesses and organizations will be featured, with fun activities for the kids, including FREE jumping castles. And don’t miss the Life Flight landing!
- Battle of the Badge Blood Drive: Our local EMS, Fire, and Law Enforcement agencies will compete to collect the most units of blood. This life-saving effort is crucial, and your participation could make a difference.
- Heart Screenings: Sanford Health will conduct heart screenings on Monday and Tuesday. Take just half an hour to ensure your heart is healthy—this simple step could save your life.
Tuesday, May 21: Fundraiser for Sturgis Fire and EMS Auxiliary
- Puzzles, Pizza, and Pitchers: Join Sturgis EMS for a fun-filled evening to support the Sturgis Fire and EMS Auxiliary. Enjoy solving puzzles, eating delicious pizza, and sharing pitchers of your favorite beverages.
Wednesday, May 22: EMS Education & Documentary Screening
- Educational Session: Learn about the current crisis in EMS and why it matters to you.
- Documentary Screening: Sturgis Ambulance will host a nationwide movie screening of “Honorable But Broken: EMS in Crisis,” a documentary exploring the challenges faced by EMTs and Paramedics and the collapse of the EMS system. Additionally, a local documentary about Sturgis Ambulance will be shown. This FREE event will be held at Loud American at 6:30 pm.
- Hands-Only CPR & Stop the Bleed Training: Before the movie, join us for FREE community training sessions on Hands-Only CPR and Stop the Bleed techniques.
Thursday, May 23: Sturgis Ambulance Fundraiser
- 9-Pin Bowling Tournament: Head to Sturgis Strikers for a fun 9-pin bowling tournament. There are still spots available for teams, so gather your friends and join the competition.
Fischer encourages everyone to reach out and thank their EMS crews and participate in these exciting events.
“Together, let’s honor the past, celebrate the present, and build a stronger future for EMS,” she said.
