Calls can be sad as well. It's never easy to lose a patient. Council EMTs take turns being on call for 12-hour shifts. Two are on duty at any given time, in town and available during that time. The work means uncertain hours and interference with family and personal life.
Many people serve for a few years, then burn out and quit.
They advertise a class in the local newspaper and many people sign up. We put people through an orientation before they even start, telling them honestly what to expect. Some are scared off by the blood and gore before they even start. Younger people in their 20s may take the course, but end up leaving Council, taking their qualifications with them. We prefer established residents in their late 30s or 40s, who will stay awhile.