HORRY CO., S.C. (WBTW)- Horry County fire rescue is changing how they respond to medical calls.
They’re taking paramedics out of ambulances and putting them on fire engines.
Horry County Fire Rescue said it will provide a better service but critics say Myrtle Beach’s ambulance will have to be dispatched outside city limits.
Horry County Fire Rescue is trying this at 3 stations; Lake Arrowhead near North Myrtle Beach, Scipio Lane, and Little River.
Two EMT’s will be in the ambulance that will respond to less serious medical calls. If a call requires a paramedic the fire engine and ambulance will respond. Horry County did not want to talk on camera, but said this will help free up paramedics. The Horry County professional firefighters president said this will impact Myrtle Beach Fire Rescue.
“If the engine is on another call they have to come from another area to get there. They’re not able to respond as efficiently if they were on the medic unit,” said Rob Mullaney.
The agency has mutual aid with Horry County Fire Rescue.
“If something were to happen where they were all tied up with something and they needed an ambulance and the closest one was one of ours then we would respond out of the city, and obviously that would leave our area a little less as well,” said Lt. Jonathan Evans with Myrtle Beach Fire Rescue.
Myrtle Beach Fire Rescue said it would change their response times a bit, but that doesn’t happen often. Rob Mullaney is worried that will change.
“In the long run, it’s a band aid on a long term problem,” said Mullaney.
“We hope to support the county in their efforts. We understand they are in a tough situation and they’re doing their best to make this the best for everyone,” said Lt. Evans.
The pilot program started four days ago. Horry County Fire Rescue said if it goes well they could implement it at more fire stations in the county.
