The Auburn Area Fire Medic campaign awarded the Valley Regional Fire Authority $8,300 in grant funds at its annual meeting. The VRFA will use these monies to purchase smoke alarms, backboard straps and traction splints. Remaining funding will be used to support a program that provides lifesaving patient information to emergency responders. Nearly half of this year’s grant will be used to purchase smoke alarms to support the VRFA’s Smoke Alarm program.
The VRFA is committed to working with the community to minimize the loss of life and property. Last year, 42 smoke alarms were distributed to senior citizens and low or fixed income families in the City of Auburn.
Funds also were designated for new backboard straps and traction splints. The new backboard straps are more cost effective than what are currently in use and have buckles that are more compatible with medical scans such as MRI, X-rays and CT scans. The traction splints, which are used for severe upper leg fractures, utilize the latest technology, are lighter weight, and are more easily stored on fire apparatus.
The remainder of the grant will be used to purchase the “Vial of L.I.F.E.” kits developed by the Medic One Foundation. These kits include a large plastic medication type vial with a form inside to list vital medical information, a magnet for the refrigerator where the vial is stored, and a sticker for the main entrance of the home to let emergency responders know that a Vial is present in the home. Having medical information readily available can save responders valuable time in determining the best course of treatment.
“The VRFA is appreciative of the continued support of the Auburn Area Fire Medic Campaign,” said Assistant Fire Chief Mike Gerber. “This grant assists the VRFA in obtaining its goal of providing exceptional fire and emergency medical services to the community it serves.”
The Auburn Area Fire Medic Campaign is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1978 by the efforts of the Soroptomist and Rotary Service Clubs of Auburn, and raises funds to enhance the quality and availability of emergency medical and rescue services in the Auburn area. Comprised of Rotarians, Soroptomists and citizens at large, the campaign’s fundraising is accomplished through private donations, memorials, and civic groups. Donations can be made at VRFA Headquarters, 1101 D Street NE, Auburn 98002.
More information on the Auburn Area Fire Medic Campaign and VRFA can be found at www.vrfa.org.
