Ambulance ALS certified

— Gravette’s ambulance service took a great leap forward last Wednesday when it received state ALS (Advanced Life Support) certification, a goal that has been actively sought for many months.

The ALS designation means the ambulance is now staffed 24/7 by a Paramedic. An Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) is also on board.

The two main ambulances have been fully equipped with equipment and supplies at a cost of several thousands of dollars to meet the state requirements.

Fire Chief David Smith, who also heads the ambulance division, said, “It’s exciting to receive the designation and to be able to provide a higher level of service and care to those who need our service.”

As an ALS ambulance, the staff is now able to provide additional lifesaving measures such as EKGs and other cardiac treatmentsand are able to administer certain medications which were not previously allowed.

Gravette now has two ALS certified vehicles as well as an older basic-certified back-up ambulance.

Gravette provides ambulance service not only for Gravette and the Hiwasse area, but also the communities of Decatur, Sulphur Springs, Maysville and the surrounding rural areas.

News, Pages 2 on 07/18/2012