What is an Emergency Medical Responder (EMR)?

Emergency Medical Responders (EMRs) are frontline medical professionals who provide immediate care in emergency situations. They work alongside provincial ambulance services, fire departments, and a wide range of public and private organizations throughout British Columbia. EMRs are provincially licensed healthcare providers and, when practicing under their license, are permitted to perform regulated medical procedures within their defined scope of practice.

Does this program meet professional and regulatory standards?

Yes. The EMR program at Pro Safe Responders is designed to meet and, in many areas, exceed the requirements set by key regulatory and certifying organizations, including:

• The Paramedic Association of Canada (PAC)

• The BC Emergency Medical Assistants Licensing Board (EMALB)

Are there any extra costs beyond tuition?

No. Your tuition with Pro Safe Responders includes all required course materials, instruction, and assessments. There are no hidden or additional training-related fees.

Do I need to pay the full tuition upfront?

No. You may secure your spot in the EMR program with a 50% deposit at the time of registration.
Use the discount code EMR50 during checkout. The remaining balance will be invoiced and is due on the first day of training.

What is the difference between EMR certification and EMR licensing?

In British Columbia, EMRs must hold a medical license issued by the Emergency Medical Assistants Licensing Board (EMALB). This licensing process reflects a higher level of responsibility, competence, and accountability compared to standard first aid training.

To obtain an EMR license, candidates must successfully complete both online and in-person EMALB examinations. These exams confirm that you meet a provincially recognized standard, making you more competitive and employable.

Before writing the licensing exams, you must complete an approved EMR certification program, such as the one offered by Pro Safe Responders.

Will Pro Safe Responders prepare me for EMALB licensing exams?

Absolutely. Preparing students for real-world practice and successful licensing is a core focus at Pro Safe Responders.

Our curriculum is structured to align directly with EMALB expectations, ensuring that course content, evaluations, and practical skills mirror what you will encounter during licensing exams. Assessments are regularly reviewed to reflect current standards, allowing instructors to provide targeted, meaningful feedback.

In addition, Pro Safe Responders offers regular skills practice sessions for graduates, giving you continued access to equipment, instruction, and hands-on refreshers as you prepare for licensing.

What additional certifications are included with my EMR training?

When you complete your EMR program with Pro Safe Responders, you also receive several additional certifications at no extra cost, including:

• Pro Safe Responders Emergency Medical Responder Certification, recognized by the Paramedic Association of Canada (PAC) and EMALB, and accepted for eligibility to write the provincial EMR licensing exam in BC

• All EMR Schedule 2 Scope Upgrades, allowing your EMR license to be unrestricted from the start

If you require a First Responder license (for example, for a fire department application), a post-course knowledge assessment pathway is available. Your instructors can guide you through the process.

Licensed EMR alumni are also recognized as holding an Advanced First Aid (OFA-3) equivalent, with no additional training or fees required.

I’m unsure if EMR is right for me. Can I talk to someone?

Yes. You can book a one-on-one discussion with one of our career advisors, all of whom are experienced paramedics. They can walk you through the demands, expectations, and realities of working as an EMR, helping you decide if this career path is a good fit for you.

Do I need a criminal record check to take the EMR course?

No criminal record check is required to enroll in the EMR program. However, certain employers—such as BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS)—may require a criminal record check with vulnerable sector screening as part of their hiring process.

Is there a dress code for training?

Yes. Students should wear comfortable, casual clothing suitable for hands-on skills practice. This includes long pants and closed-toe footwear, such as running shoes or work boots.

Full Time EMR (Normal Schedule)

Online Pre-Study (40 Hours)

Week 1 (Monday - Friday)

9 AM - 5 PM

Week 2 (Monday - Friday)

9 AM - 5 PM

Week 3 (Monday - Wednesday)

9 AM - 5 PM

Where does the training take place?

All full EMR programs are delivered at the Pro Safe Responders Surrey classroom, located at 15385 101A.

Why is Basic Life Support (BLS) included in the EMR program?

Basic Life Support is a foundational skill set for all healthcare and emergency response professionals. BLS training covers critical interventions such as cardiac arrest management, respiratory emergencies, and airway obstruction care. These are essential competencies that every professional responder is expected to perform confidently and effectively.

At Pro Safe Responders, it is our responsibility to ensure you meet professional-level expectations in these skills. Ongoing maintenance of those skills throughout your career is your responsibility.

Do I need to complete BLS if I already have the certification?

Yes. All EMR students complete the BLS portion of the program—especially since it’s included at no cost and ensures everyone meets the same current standards.

How are students assessed during the EMR program?

Assessments are conducted through both written and practical evaluations:

• One written assessments: one final written exam

• One practical assessments: one final practical exam

These assessments are designed to reflect real-world expectations and licensing standards.

What support does Pro Safe Responders offer after I complete my EMR certification?

At Pro Safe Responders, we view our students as part of a professional community—not just course participants. Support doesn’t end when you receive your EMR certificate. As you prepare for licensing and begin your career in pre-hospital care, we offer several free alumni resources, including:

Flexible Practice Sessions

If scheduled practice nights don’t work for you, or if you want additional hands-on time before an exam, we can often arrange custom practice sessions based on your availability.

Volunteer Classroom Assistant Opportunities

Many graduates choose to return as volunteer assistants, helping new students learn skills and run scenarios. Teaching reinforces your own knowledge, keeps your skills sharp, and strengthens the learning environment for everyone involved.

I am an international student. Are there any additional course fees?

No. Pro Safe Responders does not charge any extra fees for international students. Tuition is the same for all learners, and we would be happy to welcome you into our program.

English is not my first language. Will this be a problem?

We understand that learning complex medical concepts in a second language can be challenging. To support non-native English speakers, Pro Safe Responders offers several options to help set you up for success:

• EMR pre-study materials are available so you can become familiar with the medical terminology and vocabulary used in the course before training begins.

• You may choose to spread your training over a longer timeframe, giving you additional time to review content, practice skills, and build confidence.

• Course materials can be provided in advance, allowing you to study at your own pace before the program officially starts.

Our instructors are experienced in working with diverse learners and are committed to helping you succeed.

I have prior healthcare training outside of Canada. Can this count toward EMR equivalency?

At this time, prior international medical credentials cannot be transferred toward EMR equivalency in British Columbia. The Emergency Medical Assistants Licensing Board (EMALB) requires all candidates—including physicians, nurses, paramedics, and healthcare aides—to complete a full, approved EMR program to qualify for licensing.

That said, your previous education and clinical experience are respected and valued within our classroom environment, and many students with healthcare backgrounds find that their prior knowledge helps them excel during training.