In January, the Greater Princeton Branch of AYLUS (GPA) continued its holiday greeting event to seniors, firefighters, doctors, nurses, heroes and their families in our community, who sacrifice a lot to save lives, and deserve our honor and respect, especially in this holiday season.
GPA member Andrew Yao (1/8, 3 hrs) contacted the Long Hill First Aid Squad (949 Valley Rd, Gillette, NJ 07933). The township has been served by the volunteers of the Long Hill First Aid Squad since 1993, when the Millington First Aid Squad (founded in 1941) joined with the Township of Passaic (TOP) First Aid Squad (founded in 1974) to coordinate Emergency Medical Services in the Township of Long Hill.
Every year, the Long Hill First Aid Squad responds to over 700 emergency calls and drives over 10,000 miles. In addition, the Squad members presented numerous CPR and first aid courses to scouts, scout leaders, school nurses, and Township residents. The members also provided standby services at many township events.
Today, the squad has three modular ambulances fully stocked for virtually any scenario. The newest modular ambulance was purchased in March 2008, almost entirely with funds donated by community residents and through fundraisers.
During its recent fund drive, the squad finished raising enough money to purchase the newest ambulance. The new ambulance replaces one which had been purchased in 1995. The new ambulance is far more technologically advanced than the other two, and enables our members to more efficiently treat and transport our patients.
The members of the squad are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, often with two crews available per shift. At this time, the squad averages three calls per day and frequently has two ambulances out on the road at the same time. The squad provides mutual aid to Berkeley Heights and Warren on a regular basis and to other surrounding municipalities when needed. During the summer, the squad provides service at all the township special events, the WHRHS football games. The First Aid Squad participated in the coordinated response to the September 11, 2001 WTC Disaster.
The squad always needs volunteers, especially in the daytime hours. Duty shifts are normally 5 to 8 hours and are built to meet your schedule. While on duty, you do not need to be at the Squad building. Most members respond from home. The Squad encourages high school and college students to join.
GPA members (1/13, 1 hr for all), including Andrew Yao, Leo Yao, Kevin Chen, Jerry Chen, Tian Liao, Erich Dong, Christopher Cao, and more, joined the team for the donation event, hand delivering the holiday gifts to the real heroes.
More donation events are coming throughout the State of New Jersey!
