WEYAUWEGA – The Weyauwega Area Fire District Board has approved the creation of an Emergency Medical Responder program aimed at providing faster critical care during medical emergencies.
The initiative represents a significant investment in the health, safety, and future of the district’s emergency services, fire officials announced.
Emergency Medical Responders (EMRs) are trained personnel who can initiate patient care while an ambulance is still en route to time-sensitive incidents such as cardiac arrests, severe bleeding, strokes and traumatic injuries.
Under the new program, Weyauwega EMRs will be equipped to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), utilize automated external defibrillators, administer oxygen, assist with airway management and stabilize patients until ambulance personnel arrive.
Officials noted the program is not intended to replace existing ambulance services and will provide additional manpower and strengthen partnerships with local ambulance providers.
About 15 fire department members are interested in EMR certification and Gold Cross Ambulance Service has agreed to provide the necessary licensing training at no cost, according to the fire department.
Financial support for the program includes a $2,500 pledge from a donor. The department is also pursuing about $40,000 in grant funding. The district is also launching a community fundraising effort. Homes within the Weyauwega Area Fire District will receive a letter with opportunities to contribute.
“Most importantly, this program is about people,” the department said in a statement. “It is about providing care sooner when seconds count. It is about helping a neighbor, friend, family member, or loved one during one of the most difficult moments of their lives.”
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