The Western Carroll County Ambulance District Commission met Tuesday at the Eureka Springs Fire Department where the newest member, Chryl Hoyt, was present among standing commission members. Judy Thorpe was promoted to Chair at the June meeting, and presided. Jim Hughes, Al Selleck and Connie Deaton were present.
The financial report for June and July showed income at $19,610, and expenses at $134,779. WCCAD financials were recently audited resulting in good standing, and the budget for the year is on target as under half the year remains with over half the expense budget available. June/July ambulance receivables were $76,211, having collected $48,742.
Eureka Springs Fire Chief Nick Samac provided the June/July ambulance report starting with Eureka Rural, which had 28 calls for service. Grassy Knob responded to 18 calls, Inspiration Point responded to 16, and Holiday Island responded to 85 calls.
Concerns with radio reception continued to be a topic of discussion. Rural Eureka First Responder Mike Fitzpatrick stated they frequently respond to areas where no radio signal is available. Fitzpatrick stated that in the event there is no communication possible, the department is out of compliance with standard protocol.
Inspiration Fire Chief Ed Thompson chimed in saying that the same is true for locations they cover, such as areas near Lake Leatherwood.
Holiday Island Chief Bob Clave stated that the topography of this region is such that there are many pockets where there is no radio communication. A possible remedy discussed was the installation of radio repeaters.
Samac stated he would attend the next local Radio Committee meeting and express the commission’s concerns.
It was noted that Thompson will be sharing his responsibilities with local KOA owner and Inspiration Point volunteer Mike Camp, who will be attending WCCAD meetings. Camp expressed a desire to provide volunteers with all the proper emergency response gear necessary, including oxygen/CPR masks appropriate for all ages.
He also spoke of the importance that volunteers carry infant sized mask supplies in addition to adult sizes for effectual emergency medical response.
The next regular meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 15 at the Holiday Island Fire Department.