Report Prepared by: Casey Wilson, Fire Chief
Title
SUBJECT: Update Regarding Merced Fire Department First Responder Advanced Life Support Program
REPORT IN BRIEF
Update regarding the Merced Fire Department First Responder Advanced Life Support program for the period of January 1, 2025, through August 31, 2025.
RECOMMENDATION
This is for information-only.
Body
DISCUSSION
History
The Merced Fire Department (MFD) released their first Paramedic feasibility study October 1974. The study recommended the implementation of Firefighter Paramedics which would go into effect January 1976.
Fast forward to 2019, Fire Chief Billy Alcorn brought an EMS Program update and request for approval to implement a Rescue Paramedic Program citing a need to advance the level of care to our community from Basic Life Support (BLS) to Advanced Life Support (ALS).
The 2018 Merced Fire Department Standards of Cover Assessment recommendation #9 states, "The City and Department should consider expanding current EMS capacity to include ALS (paramedic) services as strategic planning and funding permit."
In 2022 the MFD applied for, was awarded, and City Council accepted a FEMA Assistance to Firefighter Grant (AFG) to provide the funding to send 12 MFD firefighters to Paramedic School.
The 2023 Merced Fire Department Strategic Plan key goal is to expand EMS in the Community. It is cited in the strategic plan, "Effective EMS response in the community is essential in today's environment. Providing Advanced Life Support (ALS) capabilities through the fire department engines, trucks and squads close a key link the AHA's Links of Survival".
Effective January 2025 MFD implemented First Responder Advanced Life Support program starting with Engine 53. Since that date Engine 53 has been staffed with a Firefighter Paramedic 24 hours a day and 7 days week as required by our First Responder Advanced Life Support Agreement with Merced County EMS agency.
Effective March 2025 Squad 53 was place...
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