BAKERSFIELD, Calif., To assist fire departments protect the health and safety of the public and first responders, FEMA awards funding through the Assistance to Firefighters Grants Program. The Kern County Fire Department is excited to announce we have been awarded $397,000 through this program. The funding comes at a much-needed time, as call volume due to population growth in our county has experienced significant increases.
Funding received will be used to purchase Advanced Life Support equipment known as Electrocardiogram Monitors (ECG monitors). These monitors applied on the patients of KCFD Paramedics monitor the heart’s electrical activity. Based on the observed cardiac arrhythmia, interventions such as defibrillation and medicines may be provided.
KCFD Paramedics provide urgent treatment for cardiac emergencies such as cardiac arrest, stroke, myocardial infarction, and other conditions. Currently, KCFD Paramedics provide ALS service in Pine Mountain Club, Buttonwillow, and when assigned on a “Squad” in metro areas. The life-saving protocols, equipment, and most importantly skills extend beyond Basic Life Support (BLS).
