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In the early 1960s, Pound Ridge residents depended on the Mount Kisco Lions Ambulance Corps. With a growing community and longer response times, the Pound Ridge Lions Club stepped in to start its own Corps and in 1966, the Pound Ridge Volunteer Ambulance Corps received a charter from New York State.
In those early days, the Corps' headquarters was located in a large shed behind Albano's and its members responded to 40-50 calls per year. In 1975, the town donated a small parcel of land at 89 Westchester Ave. and with the help of our Lions Club a new permanent building was constructed in 1981.
The Corps maintains two Ford Lifeline ambulances. To keep certification and training up to date, the volunteers work with neighboring agencies to hone skills and keep up with the latest trends in emergency medicine. As part of the Mutual Aid Agreement, this means the Corps assists with emergencies in neighboring towns including Bedford, Stamford, New Canaan and Vista.
In speaking to PRVAC Captain Marty Kremer, he emphasized how the Corps always appreciates donations made by town residents. However, there is something far more important the Corps can use besides financial help.
"The best help we can receive from the community," said Kremer,"Is to have more volunteers." In explaining there are currently 33 people on the PRVAC roster, he also states "While overnight coverage is currently good, we need help covering the town during the day."
This year so far, the PRVAC has seen a huge increase in call volume. As of September, the Corps reached the same level of calls it usually receives in an entire year.
"We're looking to bring in more people and work around their schedules," adds Kremer. "Many residents don't even know the Ambulance Corps is completely staffed by their neighbors. Most small towns simply can't afford to pay for the kind of service volunteer ambulance and fire companies provide."
The PRVAC is an all-volunteer service that serves our community 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Its members respond not only from their homes but places of work and all are very dedicated to the service they provide to their neighbors.
To show your appreciation for the PRVAC, remember to make a contribution whenever you can. If you want to be part of this amazing group of Pound Ridge residents, please consider joining as they NEED NEW MEMBERS! Their website is located at http://www.prvac.org/
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