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Matuchen EMS reports surge in 911 calls and steady volunteer recruitment
Summary
A Matuchen EMS volunteer told council the service handled more than 230 911 calls year-to-date, has added new members and trained new crew chiefs, and continues to support community events; officials emphasized EMS is volunteer-run and free to patients.
Giovani Faggera, a 17-year-old volunteer with Matuchen EMS, briefed the Borough Council on July 20 about this spring and summer’s call volume and staffing.
"We have taken over 230 911 calls so far this year, which is well above our normal call volume," Faggera said, noting 46 different members participated in calls and the service averages about 29 active participants each month. He also said Matuchen EMS has trained three new crew chiefs, added five new members with two more expected in August, and will add four cadets whose predecessors are leaving for college.
Faggera listed recent events supported by EMS volunteers, including the Memorial Day parade, the borough’s 125th birthday, Edgar School promotion, and the high school graduation. He reminded the council that Matuchen EMS is a volunteer organization that does not charge patients for transports.
Council members thanked the volunteers and asked follow-up questions; no formal action was required. The report highlights growing demand for volunteer emergency services in Metuchen and points to continued recruitment as the department balances rising call volumes with event coverage.
Council members and residents expressed appreciation for the work of police, fire and OEM personnel involved in recent storm responses, and the borough highlighted upcoming community events where EMS and other first responders will provide support.
