YODER, Wyo. — The city of Yoder voted to end its ambulance service, citing a shortage of available EMTs as one of the factors that led to the decision.
“Right now we only have one certified EMT to run the ambulance service. We’ve tried recruiting people to become EMTs, but the amount of time it requires for training keeps most people from getting involved,” Yoder Fire Protection District President Dempsey Hansen told the Telegram.
Neighboring districts will assume ambulance service responsibilities.
“We voted last month to stop the service. There was a lot of ongoing discussion about the change, but a number of those on fire department convinced me that first responders could handle what we need,” Hansen said.
According to Torrington Emergency Medical Services Director Darin Yates, Torrington EMS answers a “majority of Yoder’s calls because they often don’t have enough personnel available to respond.”
Yoder EMT Sid Castellaw, who is also a Torrington EMT, echoed Yates’ statement.
“Right now I am the only EMS personnel for Yoder. I won’t do it by myself. Right now the calls are being handled by us or Hawk Springs, and eventually we will split the district between us.”