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All Departments Administration Corrections Development Services Facilities Management Human Resources Information Technology Library Services Management and Budget Services Natural Resources Management Neighborhood and Human Services Parks and Recreation Public Safety Public Works Veterans Services Waste ServicesThe community enjoyed a behind-the-scenes look at Escambia County EMS on Saturday, April 12 during the EMS Open House. Community members, families and friends gathered at the Escambia County Public Safety building as Escambia County EMS showcased their vehicles, equipment, lifesaving abilities and more. As a bonus, attendees were treated to free chili as employees competed in a chili cook-off.
During the open house, Escambia County EMS employees set up interactive displays to demonstrate to attendees their vast knowledge and skills. Interactive demonstrations included CPR training, Stop-the-Bleed techniques, how to intubate a patient, power-load stretcher displays, LUCAS device displays, performing the Heimlich maneuver, and operating a mechanical ventilator.
Attendees had the opportunity to tour ambulances, support vehicles, the AmbuBus, and a LifeFlight helicopter during the event. The open house also featured an Easter egg hunt outside of the Public Safety building, adding an extra level of enjoyment for children and their families.
“I am very pleased with the result of our open house,” Escambia County EMS Chief Chris Watts said. “The goal was not only to showcase EMS, but also to engage with our fellow neighbors and those we serve every day. Our team did a phenomenal job demonstrating our capabilities while providing education to our community, all while having fun in the process. We look forward to hosting this event for many years to come.”
The EMS open house not only featured impressive ambulances, state-of-the-art medical equipment, and a fun Easter egg hunt, but EMS employees displayed their competitive culinary skills during the EMS Employee Chili Cook-Off, where attendees sampled five different chilis prepared by EMS employees and Escambia County Administrator Wes Moreno. While each chili presented unique and delicious flavors, EMS Deputy Chief Chris Stephens took home the top prize in both the Judges and People’s Choice categories.
District 3 Commissioner Lumon May and District 4 Commissioner Ashlee Hofberger attended the open house and had the opportunity to visit with county staff and learn more about EMS.
“It was so wonderful seeing our community gather together to support our EMS,” District 3 Commissioner Lumon May said. “To see so many people come out to and learn more about what the men and women of Escambia County EMS do for our community speaks highly of their impact on those they serve. I was impressed by what I learned from our EMTs and paramedics and I’m so grateful for their commitment to serving the residents and visitors of Escambia County.”
“Our Escambia County EMS team truly shined this past Saturday,” District 4 Commissioner Ashlee Hofberger said. “My family and I had the opportunity to attend their community showcase, and we were impressed by the incredible vehicles, equipment, and life-saving resources on display. It was a fantastic reminder of the critical role EMS plays in keeping our residents and visitors safe. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the leadership and staff of Escambia County EMS for their dedication and professionalism. Events like this not only highlight their capabilities but also help build strong, informed connections with the community.”
Escambia County Emergency Medical Services, a division of the Escambia County Department of Public Safety, is a provider of critical care, advanced life support, basic life support and bariatric transports. EMS provides these services to the over 300,000 residents of Escambia County.
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View pictures from the EMS open house here.
EMS paramedic teaching CPR to a young attendee.
District 3 Commissioner Lumon May attends the EMS Open House.
District 4 Commissioner Ashlee Hofberger attends the EMS Open House with her daughter.
An attendee experiences the power load stretcher.
EMS paramedic showing attendees what equipment they carry when tending to a patient.
Medical Director Dr. Ben Abo and EMT Lucy L. pose with their pups.
EMS Deputy Chief Chris Stephens won 1st Place in both Judges and People's Choice categories.
The mission of Escambia County government is to provide efficient, responsive services that enhance our quality of life, meet common needs and promote a safe and healthy community.
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