Q: How do I call EST?
A: Dial 5-5555 from any campus phone ("Fistful of Fives"), or dial (314) 935-5555 from your cell phone. If ambulances need to be dispatched, they will be dispatched from this number as well.

Q: How much are EST medics paid?
A: EST is an unpaid volunteer organization. We receive only the "benefit" inherent to other volunteer organizations--that of having helped people.

Q: Do you guys know what you're doing?
A: Yes. At least 2 of the 3 medics at every call are certified Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), and every member has CPR. In becoming an EMT, our medics receive 168 hours of classroom instruction as well as approximately 50 hours of hands-on training in ambulances and the ER. In addition, EST medics receive at least 1-2 hours a week of continual training to help keep their skills sharp.

Q: Do you guys only have "drunk" calls?
A: No. EST sees all kinds of calls, from minor cuts to major traumas and everything in between. While some of our calls are of that nature, the vast majority are not.

Q: If I'm drunk or high and call EST, will my parents find out? Will I get in trouble?
A: EST calls are confidential. The only people that know about your call are the 3 medics on duty and our medical director, Dr. Glass. Dr. Glass reviews all of our calls and refers some of them to the Health Educator - Betsy Foy. The calls she refers are cases where she deems concern in an alcohol/drug related event. Betsy Foy will then contact these students for followup. This followup is not punitive in any way. This followup occurs only for select cases and not for every alcohol/drug related call. Nothing will be added to your permanent record or transcript.

Q: When can I call EST and how long does it take for EST to arrive when I call?
A: EST operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and our typical response time is 3-5 minutes. We operate for the Fall and Spring semesters, but not during the summer sessions.

Q: How do I apply to become a member of EST?
A: The application process is fairly selective and occurs each fall. Click the "Join EST" link on the menu.

Q: Why does a University Police Officer often show up at an EST call?
A: The University Police usually sends an officer for scene safety and for possible transportation to the hospital or Student Health Services.

Q: What if I end up going to the hospital? How do I get back to WU?
A: If the campus police end up transporting you to the hospital, you can call them 24 hours a day at 935-5555 and they will come pick you up.

If you have any other questions about our operations, you can email the appropriate person from our "Contact Us" page.