GRANTS, N.M. – The December 18 Grants City Council meeting discussed significant advancements in emergency medical services and training for Grants Fire Rescue, and a focus on improving public health responses, the council also approved new agreements aimed at improving the emergency medical capabilities within the community.
One of the major highlights of the meeting was the approval for Grants Fire Rescue to transition to providing paramedic-level ambulance services. This improvement, which has been in development for over six months, marks a pivotal improvement in local emergency response capabilities. Fire Chief Mike Maes previously, the department primarily functioned as a fire service, providing basic life support with the assistance of contracted ambulance services. With the new paramedic-level capability, Grants Fire Rescue can now deliver advanced medical care, ensuring that both residents and visitors receive timely and more sophisticated medical interventions during emergencies.
The need for substantial investment in the training of personnel and resources was emphasized. The partnership with the University of New Mexico will play an important role in delivering ongoing medical support and advanced training for fire rescue team members. This collaboration will facilitate continuous professional development, allowing both new recruits and experienced personnel to stay updated on the best practices and the latest medical protocols. The council’s commitment to enhancing training is expected to enhance the competencies of all staff involved, thereby improving overall service delivery, according to Chief Maes.
An important point made during this meeting was the introduction of continuous improvement practices within Grants Fire Rescue. The team will regularly evaluate past medical calls, particulate severe incidents, to assess the effectiveness of the care provided. This process involves analyzing run reports and discussing treatments to identify areas for improvement, made easier and more effective because of their new hightech patient prototype, capable of being almost exactly like a real patient.
The council emphasized that this approach not only sharpens the skills but also fosters a culture of learning and adaptability within the department, ensuring that every medical team member contributes to providing the best possible care.
Grants Police Department presented three awards during this meeting. Brianne Martinez was given the employee of the year award. Ryan Thatcher accepted the police officer of the year award. Sergeant Benjamin Thorne received the police department supervisor of the year award.
More positive news was delivered when the manager of Roberta’s place informed the council and public that they recently applied for a five-million-dollar fund given away by the DFA to a non-profit organization. Wishing twenty-four hours of applying, they received the news that they will be given the fund. With this large amount of money, Roberta’s place will be able to better meet the needs of their occupants and help with special projects.
With these significant changes underway, residents can expect improved emergency services designed to better protect and serve the community.