COLUMBUS — The Ohio Department of Public Safety’s Division of Emergency Medical Services in partnership with the Columbus Division of Fire unveiled digital billboards and posters campaign today to commemorate Trauma Awareness Month and celebrate National Emergency Medical Services Week (May 18-24).
“This is an opportunity to thank the EMS providers in your community regardless of whether they are firefighters, paramedics, 9-1-1 dispatchers or an EMS board member. They play an important role in delivering emergency services to all Ohioans,” said EMS Executive Director Rucker.
The four Columbus Division of Fire members depicted on these billboards and posters are some of the city’s most dedicated, who have shown a strong commitment to helping Ohioans in their time of need.
“Our Division is a nationally recognized leader in the delivery of pre-hospital care. Each and every day, our trained paramedics provide exemplary EMS care to the residents of Central Ohio,” said Columbus Division of Fire Chief Ned Pettus, Jr. “EMS Week is the perfect time to thank them for their continuous dedication to saving lives 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
Among the four members pictured on the billboard is Paramedic/Firefighter Laura Elford from Station 15 in the Driving Park District. She is a 17-year veteran who has earned the respect and admiration of her colleagues. She is a recipient of the Firefighter of the Month Citation.
Also depicted is Lieutenant Rodney Lee from Station 20, an 18-year veteran of the Department who serves as a relief officer. Lee served as a crash firefighter in the Air Force before his career in Columbus.
Paramedic/Firefighter Andy Sharpe from Station 10, located on West Broad Street, is an eight-year veteran who followed the career path of his father who served as a paramedic for 28 years.
Firefighter David Barrick, also from Station 10, has been with Columbus Fire for almost two years. He joined the field as an opportunity to help the community.
The graphics created by the Ohio Department of Public Safety are displayed on eight digital billboards in the Columbus area. Posters were distributed to local library branches for display.
The Division of EMS will also honor Harrison Township Fire Department of Ashville, Ohio in recognition of National EMS Week for their heroic efforts to treat an infant with breathing difficulties, while struggling to cross a flooded road in Pickaway County. The recognition will be held on May 21st. Details of the event will be released closer to the date.
The Ohio Department of Public Safety, through the Division of EMS, oversees the certification of emergency medical technicians and firefighters and ensures that the professionals in these lifesaving roles are properly trained, educated and prepared for emergency situations.