FAQs

Do you charge for service?
No, we are a volunteer non-profit government entity that operates by tax funding and donations. However, we provide only emergency treatment and transport.

Can I donate to the Southampton Volunteer Ambulance?
The Southampton Volunteer Ambulance is a charitable organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, all donations are tax-deductible. For more information please click here to find more information about donating.

I want to get involved. How do I join as a volunteer?
Click here to open the volunteer page

Does it require a lot of time to be a volunteer?
The department requires each member to be on-call 1 night per week for standby (ready to respond to a call). Approximately 4 additional hours per month are required for meetings and training.

I’m not available at night, can I still help?
Definitely. If you are available to respond to a significant number of daytime calls, no night commitment is required.

Do you have age requirements to volunteer?
You must be at least 18 years of age, or 17 and be a Senior in High School, pass a physical, possess a valid license to operate a passenger vehicle in New York State, & pass a background check with no felony convictions.

Why should I volunteer?
Besides the sense of satisfaction from helping others we offer the following benefits:
Free medical training, annual basic physical, necessary vaccinations, scholarship opportunities (for members and dependent children), social activities, retirement and life insurance program, physical fitness program, related continuing education, & performance incentive benefits. Members receiving paramedic training at University Hospital at Stony Brook may be eligible for tuition reimbursement upon successful completion of the program.

I can’t volunteer. But what can I do to help?
Everyone can help by posting their address visible on the street side, keeping entry to your property and building clear for large vehicles and equipment, yield vehicle right of way to ambulances displaying flashing lights (and volunteers responding with a green flashing light). Additionally, use 911 for emergencies only, follow the emergency phone operator’s instructions calmly. Learn CPR & 1st Aid. Follow common safety rules like biking with a helmet, swimming with a buddy, having smoke & CO detectors, and fire extinguishers