Ambulance Program Adds to HVFD Capabilities

The launched a new paramedic ambulance service over the weekend able to provide advance life support medical care.

Prince George's County Fire Chief Marc Bashoor said in a press release that the new service will enable "them to provide that extra level of advanced life support service that is so critical to the citizens and residents of Hyattsville and surrounding communities."

The ambulance was placed in service last Friday, January 13 at 7:33 p.m. and was quickly put to use. It was dispatched to its first call one minute later. It ended up responding to five incidents in its first 12 hour shift, transporting patients on each call, including one suffering from a heart attack.

The ambulance operates as part of the county's Emergency Medical Services program and is managed by the Prince George's County Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department.

"The Paramedic Ambulance program will positively display our EMS growth to the citizens of Hyattsville and beyond," said Dave J. Iannone, President of the Hyattsville Volunteer Fire Department. "The Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department has played an integral role with our station to accomplish this goal and has been key to its launch and continued success."

The ambulance is scheduled to be in service over the weekends and during special events.

The ambulance will be staffed with at least on state-licensed and county-certified advanced life support provider and one county-certified basic life support provider.

So far, three members of the Hyattsville Volunteer Fire Department have earned both state and county certifications. A number of city volunteer emergency medical technicians have also completed programs allowing them to assist the ambulance crew.