Mystic River Ambulance EMS Week Community Event

Mystic River Ambulance EMS Week Community Event invites families, residents, and curious visitors to stop by McQuade’s Marketplace on Monday, May 18, for a hands-on community event celebrating the people behind emergency medical services in southeastern Connecticut. Hosted by Mystic River Ambulance as part of National EMS Week, the event offers the public a chance to meet EMTs and paramedics, explore emergency vehicles up close, and learn more about the lifesaving work happening behind the scenes every day across the region.

Taking place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the event blends education and family-friendly activities in a way designed to make emergency services feel more approachable, especially for children. Guests will have opportunities to tour an ambulance, speak directly with crew members, and participate in safety-focused demonstrations and activities throughout the morning. Organizers are also planning giveaways and interactive learning opportunities that help explain how emergency response teams operate during real-world situations. For younger kids especially, seeing the inside of an ambulance and meeting first responders outside of an emergency setting can turn something intimidating into something fascinating.

Set outside the busy Mystic location of McQuade’s Marketplace, the event adds a strong community atmosphere to an already familiar local gathering place. EMS Week events like this are designed not only to educate the public but also to recognize the critical role emergency medical professionals play throughout the area. Whether visitors stop by for a few minutes or spend the morning exploring the displays and activities, the event offers a rare close-up look at the people and equipment that help protect the community every day.

Rules and Suggestions:
• This is a family-friendly event open to the public
• Children should remain supervised while exploring emergency vehicles and equipment
• Arriving earlier in the event window may provide better access to demonstrations and crew interactions
• Guests are encouraged to ask questions and participate in safety activities
• Parking availability may vary depending on store traffic and event attendance
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for families attending with children