Charleston Fire Department granted EMT approval | News

CHARLESTON, SC (WCSC)- The Charleston Fire Department has received approval from the Department of Health and Environmental Control to conduct EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) First Responder Service throughout the Lowcountry.

The department was approved for First Responder Service after a DHEC site inspection on Tuesday, February 12. This service will allow firefighters who are certified EMT's to provide medical care.

"Numerous members of the department have worked diligently to achieve this level of certification," said Fire Chief Karen Brack. "Through increased training, certification, and the diligent efforts of the members of this department, we can provide a higher level of emergency medical care to the citizens of Charleston."

The fire department will not transport patients, but will assist in the pre-hospital care and may assist EMS while on the way to the hospital.

All recruit firefighters train to be certified EMTs as part of the Charleston Fire Department Recruit Academy.

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