By Tatiana Prophet
Daily Press - Victorville
Copyright 2007 Daily Press
VICTORVILLE, Calif. — The City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to direct city staff to develop a program that would equip fire engines with a paramedic.
Currently, firefighters are only authorized to provide basic life support and are unable to administer medication, should they arrive before the ambulance. In the case of anaphylactic shock or a blocked airway, delay could be fatal.
“It’s one of the things I’ve been pushing for a long time,” said Councilwoman JoAnn Almond after the vote.
The policy recommendation will follow a plan laid out by Councilman Bob Hunter, Fire Chief John Becker, Fire Capt. Dave Wheaton and other members of the ad hoc committee that has been working on making recommendations to the city.
The plan, which calls for an initial outlay of $1.7 million and an annual cost of $1.5 million, would include four people to an engine.
It is not the least expensive option, but it would provide for adequate fire coverage, said both Becker and Hunter.
“If you have a three-man team, and the paramedic is working on a patient, and then you get a fire call, the engine can’t go,” Hunter said.
All officials agree that the trick will be finding the money to fund the new program.
“I suggest, chief, that you involve the finance department early on,” said Mayor Terry Caldwell, adding that Becker will be competing with other departments for general fund money.
“You may come back bald,” he added later.
“I may come back retired,” Becker quipped.
One option floated around was to start charging out-oftowners for ambulance rides.
“I don’t believe we’ll have any kickback from the public whatsoever,” Hunter said.
The council agreed to review a plan at the first council meeting in October.