Untitled Document


Initially our fire department provided fire protection only. However, the extreme rural setting of our service area presents another problem to the people we serve. In some instances it can take thirty or more minutes for an ambulance to arrive in some areas. Realizing a need for quick medical response our department implemented a team of individuals to act quickly and effectively on medical emergencies in our served areas. Currently our medical first response team consists of 5 volunteers. Making up the team are 2 first responders, 2 emt-B, and an emt-P which work closely with the local EMS system to provided superb patient care. In many cases our team can arrive at the scene 15-20 minutes ahead of an ambulance and initiate patient care. As you know in the case of heart attacks or breathing problems this precious time can mean the difference between life and death.
		This truck is a 1991 Chevy Blazer. It was purchased with money raised solely through fund raisers and has been an invaluable asset to the residents in our service area. The first response truck serves a dual purpose as medical response vehicle as well as departmental business transportation. This truck is also used for quick response in locating scenes ahead of other slower moving apparatus.


	Since purchasing the medical response truck we have applied for and obtained BLS non-transport certification from the state of Indiana. Simply stated this means our vehicle must carry at least a minimum amount of equipment as determined by the state of Indiana. This is comparable to the equipment required for a BLS ambulance.
		The equipment carried on this truck includes oxygen delivery equipment, spinal immobilization devices, bandaging and splinting supplies, and an automatic external defibrillator as well as airway maintenance equipment. All of the equipment carried on the truck was supplied by grants and fund raisers.