Lawrence County’s EMS reported on Wednesday that five of six students passed the county’s first EMT basic program earlier this year, and five of those graduates have been hired by the county.

“Two of the new hires today make five of the six that have passed. All five have been hired by us and we have one more that hasn’t tested yet,” said Dave, director of EMS, during the June 24 commission meeting.

The commission approved several personnel status changes on a motion recorded during the meeting. Personnel actions listed in the motion include: Tyler Endicott moving from part time to full time EMT; Mike Misner moving from full time to part time paramedic; Chris Epperson moving from full time to part time paramedic; Patrick Misner hired as a part time paramedic; and Anna Beliles and Megan Bench hired as part time basic EMTs.

Commissioners praised the progress in staffing and training, and county staff noted the county is posting cooling-station locations on its website in response to extreme heat.

Corey Watson, director of technology, said cooling-station information will be posted on the county website to help residents find relief during the heat. County leaders urged residents to stay hydrated and watch for signs of heat-related illness.

The hiring and personnel-status changes were recorded as motions on the meeting agenda and approved during the session.