As an experienced instructor and longtime EMS professional, Kevin regularly teaches VEFR across the region on behalf of Northern Vermont AHEC, helping fire departments and EMS teams expand their capabilities and ensure readiness. The dedicated Milton cohort received training that builds on their existing service, reinforcing their ability to respond confidently and effectively when every second counts.
What Is VEFR?
The Vermont Emergency First Responder (VEFR) certification is the state’s entry-level EMS credential and an important workforce pipeline into Vermont’s healthcare and public safety sectors. It certifies individuals to provide basic emergency care in time-critical situations.
The scope of practice includes:
- Administering CPR
- Using an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)
- Controlling minor and severe bleeding
- Administering EpiPens and naloxone (Narcan)
To earn VEFR certification, participants must:
- Be affiliated with a licensed EMS agency or eligible medical facility
- Hold a valid AHA Heartsaver First Aid CPR AED certification (or equivalent)
- Complete VEFR coursework approved by the Vermont Department of Health
- Apply through the Vermont LIGHTS system
The course itself consists of:
- 12 hours of live, online lecture
- 10 hours of independent online training
- 8 hours of in-person, hands-on skills practice
A Training Ground in Milton
The Milton Fire Department, a primarily volunteer force deeply committed to community service, was the perfect setting for this VEFR course. With a strong turnout of cadets and volunteer firefighters, the course doubled down on real-world readiness – giving current responders the tools to sharpen their skills and serve their communities with confidence.
For Kevin, this is the heart of the work: bringing accessible, high-quality training to communities across Northern Vermont and re-affirming participants as capable, confident first responders.
Building the Workforce, One Course at a Time
Northern Vermont AHEC’s mission is to strengthen the rural health workforce – and Kevin’s VEFR instruction is a critical part of that mission in action. By offering these trainings across the state, NVTAHEC helps ensure that when Vermonters call for help, someone trained and ready will answer.
Congratulations to the newest VEFR trainees in Milton, and thank you to Kevin Adams for your continued leadership and dedication. Whether in a classroom, online, or in the field, you’re helping shape the future of emergency care in Vermont.
Interested in bringing VEFR training to your school, fire department, or community?
Reach out to Northern Vermont AHEC at contact@nvtahec.org to learn more about available courses or how you can bring a course to your organization. .
For more about the Milton Fire Department’s service to the community, visit: Milton Fire Department