🚑 It’s EMS Week! Read More >
IOWA – The Iowa state government is piloting a program in rural areas to enhance emergency response times using fairly basic, but powerful technology. In this program, volunteers will play a crucial role by downloading a designated smartphone app that will notify them of nearby emergencies. These volunteers will receive training and will be equipped with essential lifesaving supplies to effectively respond to critical situations.
NEW YORK – This report from a local affiliate in Steuben County, NY highlights a sheriff’s department that required all deputies to become EMTs. The sheriff says he initially pushed for this initiative as EMS agencies are being spread increasingly thin.
NATIONWIDE – A report in today’s Washington Post says trains are getting longer, and that’s a major concern for emergency services. I’ve highlighted two key quotes from the article. It’s very insightful, and I highly recommend giving it your attention.
...Over the last decade, rail corporations have been running more lengthy freight trains — some as long as three miles — partly to save fuel and labor costs. As they do, they are blocking rural and urban intersections, stoking anger and contributing to tragedies and calamities... ...It is happening across the country. In Tennessee, a man died of a medical emergency after an ambulance crew was held up at a train crossing. In Oklahoma, a man perished from a heart attack after first responders were stuck behind a train at the only entrance to their street...
MICHIGAN – A state grant totaling $8 million will support EMS education around the state with the goal of boosting EMT recruitment. According to the state, $6 million has previously been spent, which resulted in 450 new students around the state.
