Brinnon Fire Department Pursues ALS License to Meet Growing Medical Demands

Brinnon Fire Department is actively seeking an Advanced Life Support (ALS) license in response to the escalating need for advanced medical care, evident from a significant 65% increase in emergency call volume since 2016.

As a combination fire station, the Brinnon Fire Department operates with a dedicated full-time staff, including three skilled Firefighters/EMTs, a capable Fire Chief, and an efficient district secretary. In addition to their core team, the department benefits from the valuable contributions of volunteer and stipend staff. The department takes pride in Aid 41, a fully equipped ALS ambulance with state-of-the-art technology, serving the vast rural area of approximately 131 square miles within Jefferson County.

Presently, the Brinnon Fire Department does not possess an ALS license, resulting in their ability to operate ALS services solely when a paramedic, namely Fire Chief Tim Manly, is on duty. This limitation restricts their capacity to deliver essential ALS care. However, obtaining an ALS license will empower the Brinnon Fire Department to collaborate with other fire districts to hire paramedics and significantly enhance the ability to provide comprehensive care.

ALS is indispensable in handling critical cases such as strokes, heart problems, heart attacks, respiratory distress, allergic reactions with respiratory distress, seizures, and various other life-threatening emergencies. By acquiring an advanced life support license, the department's medical staff will be authorized to perform advanced procedures on-site, significantly reducing response time and improving patient outcomes. Moreover, with enhanced ALS capabilities, Brinnon Fire staff will bridge the crucial gap between emergency response and hospital care.

Obtaining the ALS license is a critical mission for the Brinnon Fire Department, underpinning their commitment to delivering the highest standard of service to their district.