A controversial decision to phase out fire co-responders has drawn sharp criticism from local officials and emergency service experts. The move, aimed at shifting more responsibility to community first responders in rural parts of the county, has been described as “bonkers” by those who fear it will compromise emergency response effectiveness.
Fire co-responders play a critical role by arriving quickly alongside ambulance crews to provide lifesaving interventions, especially in remote areas where response times can be significantly longer. Removing this support risks delaying essential care during medical emergencies.
Community first responders are volunteers who provide valuable aid, but critics argue they cannot fully replace the training and equipment that fire co-responders bring. Concerns have also been raised about the increased pressure this shift places on volunteers and whether it will create gaps in coverage.
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Local leaders are calling for a thorough review of the new policy, stressing the need to maintain robust, rapid emergency response systems that safeguard vulnerable rural populations.