Established by President Gerald Ford in 1973, EMS week is a gesture of gratitude for those on the frontline of health care, who respond 24 hours a day with care to the 25 million emergency transportations each year in the U.S.

Many emergency medical service personnel, especially in rural areas, are volunteer.

EMS coordinator for Southwest Colorado Community College, T. Troy Salazar, said the designation offers an opportunity for communities to show their appreciation.

“This is the week to thank those people,” he said.

For more information, visit the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians website, www.emsweekideas.org.