Marion, Saltville fire departments seek county`s OK of first-responder status

Tuesday evening, two fire departments sought the support of the board of supervisors as they work to assist local rescue squads by also serving as first responders. The Marion and Saltville fire departments want to help people get the care they need.

Representing the Saltville Fire Department, Tim Nutter, who is also an EMT and paramedic, said it’s hard to get to a scene before rescuers and not be able to provide care because of not being licensed.

Nutter emphasized that the fire department is not trying to take over the rescue squad, but support it. Saltville’s rescue squad is working to rebuild after facing federal charges, which were not upheld against the squad but were against two of its leaders.

Nutter said the squad and the town of Saltville support the department’s work. He noted that the other closest responders to Saltville are Tannersville and Chilhowie, which could answer calls in “15 minutes at best.” The department’s first responders could provide “faster and better care until someone could get a transport unit there,” said Nutter. He said the squad will continue to provide 100 percent of the transport and will get any financial reimbursements.

Nutter said Dr. Frederick Moses, an emergency care physician at SCCH, will serve as the department’s operational medical director (OMD). He added that the department plans to equip two vehicles and will offer advanced life support.

“We’re just trying to provide service to help people in the community,” said Nutter, who added that the town of Saltville wanted to know it had the county’s backing before allocating money to the effort.

County Administrator Michael Carter said, “I think the board of supervisors recognizes the importance and need.” He asked Nutter to provide his office with more detailed information about the department and this effort.

Marion Fire Department Chief Todd May presented a similar case to the board of supervisors.

The issue for the Marion Lifesavings Crew is handling the large call volume, said May. A member of the crew was present to show his agency’s endorsement of the MFD’s effort.

May cited a lack of volunteers as a critical problem. “We’re having a harder time recruiting people who will give up their personal time. It’s a shame, but it’s the truth,” the chief said.

The MFD also plans to outfit two vehicles, Engine 102 and a Suburban command vehicle, for first-responder calls. Transport will still be done by the lifesaving crew.

Dr. Peter Bruzzo has agreed to serve as the OMD for both agencies.

MFD assistant chief Richard Keesling said multiple members have completed training as basic EMTs and, once the department is accredited, will undergo additional training.

May said the board’s approval was the final step the department needed completed to meet the EMS Council’s requirements for licensing as a first-responder agency.

The board unanimously adopted a resolution supporting the MFD receiving its license.

Stephanie Porter-Nichols may be reached at sportern@wythenews.com or 783-5121.