Ionia Sentinel-Standard, Mich.
PORTLAND, Mich. — The Portland Ambulance Department was recognized for its 50th anniversary.
The Portland City Council issued a proclamation recognizing the Ambulance Department’s 50 years of service to the community at its Monday, June 7, meeting, according to a news release from the city.
The city of Portland and its fire department began providing services to the community in 1971, according to the proclamation.
At the time in Portland, transportation involving medical emergencies was provided by the local funeral home using their hearse and rendering basic first aid while en route to the hospital.
Certification available consisted of an Ambulance Attendance Certificate based on the completion of first aid training, per the proclamation.
“Portland Ambulance evolved over the years with the introduction of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Laws requiring the licensure of the agency and personnel until it reached the current Advanced Level Service, which was the first in Ionia County,” the proclamation reads.
Portland Ambulance is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week by three full-time paramedics. The proclamation also cites the department’s service to neighboring villages and townships and through natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic.
___
(c)2021 Ionia Sentinel-Standard, Mich.