Frequently Asked Questions

Your Questions Matter to Us

We’ve gathered some of the most common questions ask and answered them all in one place.

  • Yes! We are a combination department—our team includes both highly trained volunteers and paid EMTs and paramedics who work together to respond to 911 calls.

  • Visit our Join Us page for details. Volunteers must be at least 17 years old and able to meet physical and training requirements. EMT certification is not required to join—you can begin as a driver or helper.

  • No, but you may need to be available to respond to calls during certain times if you choose to take a duty night.  Our new building has bunkrooms and shower facilities available for members that choose to stay at headquarters.

  • Yes. We provide standby EMS for community events within our coverage district upon request. Please contact us in advance so we can review availability and planning needs.

  • No. We are an independent agency that contracts with the Town of Southampton to provide ambulance services.

  • Ride-alongs and clinicals are offered on a case-by-case basis. EMT and Paramedic students should speak with their instructor if interested in doing rotations with SVA.

  • Southampton Volunteer Ambulance offers multiple membership classes to accommodate volunteers with varying availability. Applicants must be at least 17 years old and possess a valid New York State driver’s license.

    ·       Full Members are expected to commit to one duty night per week or be available to respond to day calls. In addition, full members must serve on a committee, attend one general meeting and one drill per month, and maintain all required certifications and training.

    ·       Associate Members are required to respond to a minimum of 20 calls per year and maintain all mandatory training. However, associate members are not eligible for member benefits such as medical reimbursements or scholarships and may not vote in meetings or elections or hold an officer position.

  • Yes! If you attend an EMT class hosted by Suffolk County EMS SVA covers the cost upfront.  If you attend any other EMT class, reimbursement is available upon completion of the course and fulfillment of service.