WHEREAS, emergency medical services are a vital public service; and
WHEREAS, the members of emergency medical services teams are ready to provide lifesaving care to those in need 24 hours a day, seven days a week; and
WHEREAS, access to quality emergency care dramatically improves the survival and recovery rate of those who experience sudden illness or injury; and
WHEREAS, the EMS providers within the Village of Park Forest are dedicated to protecting the life and health of all of citizens and visitors from illness and injury; and
WHEREAS, emergency medical services are a critical element of our nation's disaster and mass casualty response. Together with their colleagues in the fire service and law enforcement, EMS practitioners respond to disasters and mass casualties, including bombings, mass shootings, biological and natural disasters, earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, and floods; and
WHEREAS, the members of emergency medical services teams, engage in thousands of hours of specialized training and continuing education to enhance their lifesaving skills; and
WHEREAS, it is appropriate to recognize the value and the accomplishments of emergency medical services providers by designating Emergency Medical Services Week.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Joseph A. Woods, Mayor of the Village of Park Forest, Cook and Will Counties, Illinois, do hereby proclaim on behalf of the Village Board of Trustees that the week of May 21-27, 2023, be designated as EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES WEEK with the theme, “EMS WEEK: Where Emergency Care Begins”. The Board of Trustees hereby encourage the community to observe this week with appropriate programs, ceremonies and activities.