During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the pressing need for advanced medical equipment to enhance emergency response capabilities in the county. A key focus was on the acquisition of power stretchers, which significantly improve the safety and efficiency of transporting patients, particularly heavier individuals.

One official highlighted the effectiveness of these stretchers, noting that they can lift up to 700 pounds with the push of a button, allowing even smaller EMTs to manage heavy patients without risking injury. The discussion emphasized that investing in such equipment is crucial, as the cost of a single back injury among staff can far exceed the initial investment in power stretchers.

The meeting also addressed ongoing manpower challenges faced by emergency services, particularly in the western part of the county. Officials acknowledged that staffing shortages are a widespread issue, complicating the ability to respond to calls effectively. To mitigate this, they are exploring options to deploy additional vehicles and resources to areas with high demand, especially during peak seasons like winter recreation.

Furthermore, the county is awaiting updates on a grant request aimed at securing more equipment to address these needs. The officials expressed a commitment to improving emergency response capabilities, recognizing that the current system must adapt to meet the growing demands of the community.