You don't! No one knows exactly how he or she will react to the various medical emergencies and pressure situations that one will encounter on Rescue. However, experience has shown that as people become trained to handle medical emergencies, the natural fear of being confronted with a potentially horrible situation recedes. However, rescue work is by nature a stressful occupation and our squad has access to Critical Incident Stress Management Leaders for any member or crew in need of assistance with emotional difficulties that may arise from a rescue encounter. On the positive side, the feeling that results from being responsible for saving a life or helping an individual through their emergency crisis is one that you will carry forever — and for many individuals far outweigh the negative aspects of the job.

All new Essex Rescue members go through a six-month probationary period during which time you are assigned to a crew with an experienced Crew Captain. This period of time provides the new member with an opportunity to slowly build a relationship with the squad and determine if the member likes this type of service. If you find that you are not cut out for this type of service, there are, of course, no strings to your staying with the squad.