WHITESBORO, Texas. (KTEN) - One decision. One service, and thousands of calls later a completely different fire department after the Whitesboro fire administration opted in to have in house emergency medical services.
On September 20th, 2022 - 12 people were hired to become EMS responders. some of which were already volunteer fire fighters with the department.
"They have given back to the community for years and we were able to give back to them by hiring them for a job,” said fire chief Jeff Patterson.
All 12 completing training before stepping into the field.
"It's not like they just drive here to go to work, most of them actually live here and call Whitesboro home,” said chief Patterson.
Officially responding to calls October 1st of that year.
"Previously it was served by a private company, so we've seen an increase in the level of service they are able to provide,” said chief Patterson.
With the platform of the division being created, administration staff enhanced their pre-hospital care, investing not only into their staff but also their equipment.
"Our two front line ambulances will be replaced here in six months with two brand new ambulances,” said chief Patterson.
Staff say, because of those initial 12 EMS responders, medical services have become an integral part of the department.