History of Crescent Falls University First Aid Squad

Founded 1969

The Crescent Falls University First Aid Squad is one of the oldest EMS agencies in the county, having been founded in 1969 by the university to assist with medical school entry requirements. The organization’s first EMS room was based in a dorm, out of a spare room. They originally were only first aid providers, giving no more than care than any other first-aid trained layperson. As the university grew, adding a building in 1975, the First Aid Squad gained a purpose-built room. When Crescent Falls University Hospital EMS was established in 1980, the First Aid Squad gained a medical director, sharing with the EMS service. The squad began to carry pagers, and began to perform at the BLS level. The First Aid Squad is dispatched by campus security to all medical emergencies on campus, and members will respond as they are able. First Aid Squad members focus on lifesaving interventions, with most carrying small first aid kits and almost none carrying full-size kits. As the first aid squad has progressed, it’s membership has wavered, mostly consisting of premed students with few exceptions. In 2015 the squad considered purchasing a vehicle for members to respond across campus, but as of now the squad remains operating on foot. Training and equipment are provided to the squad by Crescent Falls University Hospital EMS.