City EMT Expands Program Offerings with New Wildland Course and Community CPR Classes

The City of San Francisco is making strides in community health and safety with the launch of several new training programs aimed at empowering residents and enhancing emergency response capabilities. During a recent government meeting, Christine Ison, the program director, highlighted the organization's ambitious plans for 2025, which they have dubbed the "year of expansion."

Among the key initiatives introduced this year are a wildland firefighting course, an emergency dispatch test preparation program, and free community CPR classes. The wildland course, which began in March, successfully graduated 20 out of 22 participants, who also earned 11 certificates. The emergency dispatch program, which started in April, is currently guiding a cohort of seven students through their certification process, with a second cohort set to begin on August 4. The CPR classes, already active in the Bayview and Sunnydale neighborhoods, aim to reach more communities across the city.

Ison emphasized the importance of partnerships with the San Francisco Fire Department (SFFD), which provides invaluable instructors and resources for these programs. The collaboration has allowed for practical training experiences, including simulated mass casualty incidents on Treasure Island, enhancing the preparedness of participants.

Despite the city's financial challenges, Ison urged continued support for these initiatives, noting that the training not only prepares students for careers in emergency services but also fosters a sense of community and resilience. She pointed out that many graduates have pursued diverse paths, including nursing and firefighting in other regions, showcasing the program's broader impact on the community.

The meeting underscored the city's commitment to investing in local talent and ensuring that residents are equipped with essential skills to respond to emergencies. As these programs continue to grow, they promise to strengthen the community's safety net and provide valuable opportunities for San Francisco's youth.