Firefighters from Aragon and Polk County Stations 4 and 6 are now better prepared to assist in emergency situations due to intensive training.

This training included a seven week classroom and hands-on Emergency Medical First Responder class provided by Floyd Medical Center Emergency Services.

It is designed to educate firefighters on how to mitigate situations involving life-threatening illnesses and injuries. Examples of the topics covered were scene size-up, patient assessment, airway and breathing, circulation, childbirth and trauma.

Aragon Fire Chief David W. Gilmer said the class would benefit volunteers in his department by enhancing skills that will help them during emergency situations such as a wreck.

“It is something every member of our department has wanted to do for a long time,” he said. “It is like a dream come true for us. We can help victims until EMS arrives.”

Gilmer said intensive training hones skills of the 14 firefighters in his department, including those who participated in the course. The class was taught two nights a week from 6 to 10 p.m.

“Everyone was really excited and did not mind the hours needed to complete the course,” he said. “We all know that it will help us be more prepared to help the citizens we serve. That is a good thing.”

He plans to continue updating what has been learned during the group’s weekly meetings and hopes to work with Floyd EMS for more education through classes that will enhance life-saving skills.

Instructor Darren Vandegriff, Paramedic, Floyd EMS, said he was impressed with the diligence and eagerness of the group.



He said the class is part of Floyd’s commitment to provide quality services to the citizens of Polk, including emergency and non-emergency transport, community relations and educational opportunities available to the public safety providers.

Gilmer hopes his department can receive additional training and support from Floyd EMS since different levels can be achieved.

“Many of our people dedicate hours to Aragon’s fire department in the hope of being better at what they choose to do,” Gilmer said. “It will help us better serve our citizens. That is a good thing.”

Firefighters participating in the class included Wesley Gilmer, Adam George, Mike Long, Brian Lewis, Kristen White and Ryan Croker, City of Aragon Fire Department; Jamie Brown and Randy Martin, Polk Station 4; Captain Joshua Long and Josh Stroup, Polk Station 6.