Posted July 11, 2024
This month, Peter Jozwick celebrates his 29th year as a member of Montgomery EMS (MEMS). Over the years, he has witnessed and coordinated many changes within the organization. Jozwick has held numerous positions, including serving as president for five years, and has spent many years as an officer and trainer.
First responder Peter Jozwick — also known as Peter the Dog Trainer.
“I have lived in Montgomery since 1986 and admired MEMS at work before joining,” he said. “I respected the dedication of individuals providing medical care without pay, simply for the satisfaction of helping their neighbors. “These people run toward emergencies, not away from them, in all types of weather, day or night. I felt this was something I could be a part of and made that goal a reality when I was asked to join in 1995, initially as a driver,” Jozwick said.
Jozwick enrolled in the fall class and completed his certification by the end of 1995. “The certification course was different then. There was no training on defibrillators, Narcan for drug overdoses, or Epi-Pens for allergic reactions,” he said. “We had to rely on paramedics for these tasks.
Fortunately, EMTs are now trained in these areas, which is so beneficial to our patients,” he explained. “If one thing stands out over the past 29 years, it is the dedication and commitment of our members to Montgomery and the growth of MEMS. “During the height of COVID, MEMS adapted and remained committed to our township.” “We are also fortunate to have an active cadet program, supported by the high school, which raises awareness and highlights the benefits of joining MEMS.
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Many cadets have recruited fellow students and even their parents to join as drivers or EMTs. “Numerous cadets have gone on to become doctors and nurses.” “In my time with MEMS, I have seen just about every type of emergency call imaginable. “I have performed CPR over 100 times and attended countless trauma calls. We learn early how to provide comfort to family members, recognizing that sometimes they are also patients. “Critical thinking and thinking outside the box are skills honed through 911 calls,” Jozwick reflected.
Looking to the future, Jozwick said he plans to continue responding to 911 calls as long as he is able. After retiring from his corporate job in 2021 due to COVID, Jozwick turned his long-time hobby of training puppies and adult dogs into a profession. “Retirement should be fun and fulfilling, and this was my way of making that happen,” he said.
After completing a one-year certification course in dog training, Jozwick started his training company, Peter the Dog Trainer, based in Skillman. “While training puppies is a lot of fun, behavioral training is truly rewarding. Most dog owners want a well-behaved pet they can take anywhere, but they don’t know how to achieve that. I can show them how,” he explained.
To volunteer with or donate to Montgomery EMS, please visit mems47.org.
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