CLEVELAND, March 7, 2006 – 16 cadets will graduate from the Cleveland EMS Academy today at 1:00 p.m. in the Rotunda of Cleveland City Hall. Mayor Frank G. Jackson will swear in the eight Paramedics and the eight Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT).

This new class will increase the number of available ambulances for operations and will assist the Division of EMS in responding to over 91,000 calls a year for medical treatment in the City of Cleveland.  

"The Division of EMS provides superior pre-hospital care to Cleveland’s citizens and visitors,” said Mayor Jackson. "I extend my appreciation to these 16 individuals who are entering into public service."

The cadets completed a 12-week training session, which included topics such as EMS Out-of-Hospital Patient Care Protocols, Domestic Preparedness (WMD), Driver’s Training, and intense physical fitness with standards the same as the Division of Police.  

The cadets will now serve an additional 38 days with a field training officer on squad prior to serving full independent duty.