Being an emergency responder

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(Like police officers, firefighters, EMTs, etc.)

Would you ever do it?

No, but that certainly does not be nobody else should!

I do not have any problem going into a difficult situation to try to help someone, but once I do see a need and I begin trying to go help, my "hyper-focus" blocks me from being able to even notice any "team members" (if there are any) ... and then they just begin getting all upset.

I've considered joining the police, but the roles that interest me are senior ones which would take 5+ years to reach, and I don't think I could handle being a beat cop.

Yeah, I think they'd be great jobs! Not sure what the pay's like though.

If you're curious about becoming an EMT, there's a great way to find out if it's for you: Most places you can find EMTs you'll also find trainers who can provide training in CPR/First Aid, First Responder, and full-blown EMT. First aid and CPR is typically a one to two day course. First Responder is typically a one week course the first time with three to four day refreshers every two years from then on.

First Responder training covers a lot of material with enough depth and breadth for you to be of use in a medical or trauma emergency. It gives you the basics you need to know to recognize an emergency situation, provide immediate aid, package a victim for transport, and assist EMTs on the scene.

If, after a week of trainin, you find you want more more more, maybe that's a sign that training for an EMT position is the right thing to do. Instructors are typically EMTs themselves, so they would be able to tell you what to do next. Even if you decide after a week of training that this isn't for you, you'll be better able to respond when someone around you is hurt or sick.

Just don't be surprised if your first aid kit is never the same again!

No, I hate the sight of blood and even throw up at the sight of my own!

However, I have a family member who is a paramedic (EMT) and they love the job. They get a lot of satisfaction from helping people and find all the medical stuff really interesting.

Would love to but disqualified due to medical issues (insufficiently acute vision) for police work.

If I didn't have that problem I would probably be serving in the military though.