The Kansas City Fire Department and Chief Donna Maize honor all EMS staff during this year’s EMS week.  And this year, it’s especially important.

“KCFD has always stepped up when needed to serve the residents of KCMO. Our staff’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrates KCFD’s dedication to providing high quality patient care to all Kansas Citians. Emergency Medical Service is a vital part of public health and our emergency medical providers are dedicated to serving the community” said KCFD Chief Donna Maize. “I am especially proud and thankful for all of our staff who have adapted to operational changes as we respond to this pandemic.”

The number of Emergency Medical Service calls continue to be a large percentage of KCFD operations. During the last three years, overall call volume has increased by about 20% including EMS responses which have increased by more than 7,000 calls.  Ambulance crews respond to all structure fires, HAZ-MAT and Technical Rescue calls, traffic accidents, and numerous types of emergency medical calls. EMS is a vital resource at structure fires providing on-site medical care for residents and KCFD staff when necessary.

KCFD will continue to serve KCMO in the safest manner possible that protects both staff and residents. But it is vital that the public continue following Public Health recommendations including wearing face masks in public, practicing social distancing and washing hands frequently to help slow the spread of COVID-19. These practices not only protect yourself but protect all first responders.

“As we celebrate EMS Week, and while the stay-at-home order has been lifted and many businesses are beginning to reopen, we still need residents to help reduce the spread and protect the protectors,” said KCFD Chief Donna Maize.

KCFD has also produced a series of videos to remind residents that we need everyone to help protect first responders by practicing social distancing, washing hands frequently, and wearing masks in public.
To watch this video series, click here.