BLS (Basic Life Support) – care rendered by an EMT or paramedic that involves advanced first aid skills, but not advanced life support skills like a paramedic can do. BLS care can include taking of vital signs, CPR, splinting, bandaging, and spinal stabilization.

CPR – performance of chest compressions and/or artificial breathing for a patient whose heart has stopped and/or has stopped breathing.

EMT – “Emergency Medical Technician.” EMTs can be firefighters, ambulance attendants or work in an Emergency Department. They have completed state and local certification to provide basic life-saving skills and advanced first aid skills. EMTs must take continuing education classes to maintain these basic skills and knowledge.

Paramedic – someone licensed by the State of California to perform basic and advanced life support care to patients. A paramedic has successfully completed a state-approved training program and testing to national standards and undergoes continuing education to maintain the required advanced skills and knowledge.

Paramedic Membership Program – The City of Anaheim offers residents and business owners the option of paying $3 a month ($36 a year) rather than being charged $300 per fire department medical aid response. This program helps us offset the costs of providing excellent emergency medical services. Most members are billed on their city utility program. Contact the Fire Department at (714) 765-4060 to sign up.

Transport Fee/ALS – A $250 charge billed on the private ambulance company bill. ALS transport requires the presence of an Anaheim Fire Department paramedic because of the advanced (ALS) care being provided.

Transport Fee/BLS – charges by private ambulance company for transport to a hospital during a 911 medical emergency. The maximum fee schedule is determined by the Orange County Board of Supervisors.

Vital Signs – blood pressure, pulse, respiratory rate