As firefighters in Southwest and Southside spend most of their time responding to EMS calls, training evolves

Firefighters in Southwest and Southside regions are increasingly focusing on EMS call responses, prompting a shift in their training programs. This change was highlighted at a statewide first responder symposium in Blacksburg, emphasizing the need for more medical expertise among these crews. The evolving training reflects a broader trend in emergency services where firefighters are taking on dual roles in both firefighting and medical emergency response, which is crucial as their primary duties shift towards EMS calls. This evolution could improve overall emergency response efficiency and outcomes in these areas.