In response to the growing need for volunteer firefighters and EMTs, South Whidbey Fire/EMS launched a new program last year to recruit volunteers from outside of the district.
So far this year, six EMT out-of-district volunteers have joined the department. They are Seattle residents Sage Cowles, Aron Nolte and Kiel Rasp, Oak Harbor resident Elizabeth Ratterman, Mukilteo resident Kristi Doody and Jesse Jennings, of Edmonds. Two others are still in the process of joining.
“Our crew is getting stretched pretty thin,” said Chief H.L. “Rusty” Palmer.
“Fatigue is setting in as we respond to an increasing number of calls, with fewer hands on deck. We continue to think of creative ways to recruit new members, but also are looking for ways to bring in more folks already trained who can help.