For over 30 years, the First Aid Services Team (FAST) has provided direct patient care and support to thousands at Central Ohio community events. This is done in collaboration with Columbus Division of Fire, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, The Ohio State University and many other organizations. Our collective goal is to provide a safe atmosphere to event participants, spectators and the general public at these small and large-scale events. Some notable events include The Ohio State University’s home football games, Columbus PRIDE! Festival, the Nationwide Children’s Columbus Marathon and the Cap City Half Marathon.
This unique program consists of 100 Red Cross volunteers who are trained up to the Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) level and operate under the medical direction of a physician. Each volunteer is equipped with first aid supplies, automated external defibrillators (AEDs), emergency oxygen and two-way radio communication from an incident command center.
"When we get the opportunity to work with American Red Cross’s First Aid Services Team, we are confident that a top-quality service is going to be provided to our fans."
Mike Penner - Executive Associate Athletics Director, The Ohio State University
Our staff of trained and experienced event planners can help you determine response needs, ambulance needs, and injury preparedness. We will work with you to assess the risks surrounding your event and help create a solid medical response plan! The FAST team is now available for festivals, concerts, races, company picnics, and any event where a crowd can gather!
Please contact the First Aid Services Team if you would like to find out more about our services.
"Our partnership with American Red Cross FAST has proven to be one of the most beneficial services we can count on when it comes to the safety of our guests."
Scott Dickson - Associate General Manager, Jerome Schottenstein Center
Whether you are an experienced EMS professional or someone looking to give back to the community, the American Red Cross has a rewarding volunteer program to help you train and grow professionally! Our team of volunteers come from a wide variety of backgrounds, ages and professional experiences. You do not need to have any medical training to join our program!
FAST volunteers come equipped with emergency oxygen, AED's, first aid kits, cots, blankets, radios, and an ice chest. Our team of volunteers are certified at a minimum with ‘Adult, Child, and Infant CPR/AED and First Aid’. Many of our volunteers hold professionals licenses (EMT, RN, etc.) or advanced first responder training through the American Red Cross.
There are many benefits to joining the First Aid Services Team. You will receive your initial training certification and all recertification’s courses free of charge! Advanced training courses are available to volunteers (CPR for the Healthcare Provider, Emergency Medical Response, Emergency Oxygen Administration). You will also get excellent opportunities to network with EMS professionals and other Healthcare Providers. Lastly, you will get excellent clinical experience by getting to work with a wide variety of patients.