BACKGROUND: Jess Accetta is an EMT and nursing student with a degree in biology. She’s been an EMT in Killingworth for two years, is an EMT with the Clinton Ambulance and is a resident of Clinton. She is also the youngest EMT with the Killingworth department.
Q: You’re the youngest EMT in the KAA. When did you decide this was something you were interested in and why?
ACCETTA: I chose to come to the KAA after being trained here and enjoying the camaraderie, team work and pride displayed in every task that’s presented to these responders. It’s an honor to work alongside such incredible people every day. I’ve always liked helping people, and I’m going to school to be a nurse. When I turned 18, taking an EMT class seemed like the perfect start. Being a little younger has not made a difference … aside, that is, from being called “kid.” On every call or situation that we’re presented with, being the youngest or oldest EMT doesn’t make a difference. We’re all equals and offer aid to the best of our abilities.
Q: You also work as an EMT with the Clinton Ambulance. How does that experience differ from the KAA?
ACCETTA: Both departments differ from each other, but the end goal is the same: Do the job we’re called for with the utmost respect and care. In Clinton, I work alongside the police department and first responding EMTs and firefighters, and we’re all in one building together. In Killingworth, despite the buildings being separate (they are next-door to each other), we all work together and coordinate with the Connecticut State Police when needed to achieve our results.
Q: Are there ever times you’re called by both at the same time? And, if so, what do you do?
ACCETTA: Sometimes emergencies are so big in nature that we have to call a mutual-aid department, or we simply don’t have the manpower to respond to a call and call for mutual aid. Towns surrounding us all follow the same practice; we have each other’s backs. If I’m scheduled for either town, and the other needs help, it’s hard to have to let it go. If I give my time commitment to one, I have to follow through. However, if both have a call, and both need an EMT (this has happened), I check to see the nature of the call and wait to hear a second tone and who still needs help. Whichever town has the call with need of more help is where I’ll go. I always carry a spare T-shirt, just in case.
Q: What are your career goals, and how does the KAA help you achieve them?
ACCETTA: Career wise, I’m studying to be a Pediatric Endocronology/Oncology nurse. KAA helped set me on the right path with interest in health care, practices in patient care and priceless experience and constant support. I’m very grateful to work alongside members of the KAA.
Q: What’s your message for teens or college-aged students interested in following your path?
ACCETTA: Just try it. It’s a lot of hard work and commitment. Not everyone wants to get up at 0200, and some days are harder than others. But if you have the passion for compassion and the drive to help others around you this is the right place to be.