Since 1974, the St. Charles Fire Department has provided emergency medical services (EMS) to our community, the first of its kind in the State of Missouri. Our department utilizes a system that staffs two ambulances with firefighter/ paramedics and all fire apparatus with at least one firefighter paramedic. In this way, we can provide the highest quality medical care expediently and efficiently. Operating in this manor also allows us to maximize our personnel and provides for cost effective management of operations.

Many people wonder what a paramedic is or what they are capable of doing. A paramedic is trained and licensed through the state to provide advanced medical care. On average, it can take a paramedic candidate two years to complete schooling. Once completed, they have earned an Associates of Applied Science in Paramedic Technology and can challenge the state test to obtain their license. With the additional fire training, it can take an individual up to three years to become a firefighter/paramedic.

Paramedics are trained to provide advanced life support (ALS) to patients. Examples of ALS include; electrocardiogram analysis, use of adjunctive airway devices, the ability to establish and maintain intravenous lines, the knowledge to provide appropriate medications and many other advanced procedures. Samplings of some medical emergencies that require ALS include cardiac disorders, diabetic emergencies, seizures, burns, trauma from falls or motor vehicle crashes, and maternity complications.

The paramedics of the St. Charles Fire Department are highly trained and compassionate individuals. They meet and exceed rigorous standards and continued training in an effort to serve the citizens of St. Charles with the utmost in quality care.