In anticipation of Pope Francis’ visit to Philadelphia, the Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services (HCDFRS) is providing emergency medical services (EMS) equipment to assist with the large crowds expected to turnout. At the request of Narberth Ambulance, HCDFRS is sending four cardiac monitoring devices to meet the need. HCDFRS is providing this equipment on loan with the support of County Executive Allan H. Kittleman.
“Large scale events like the Papal Visit require the sharing of critical assets, extraordinary regional cooperation and mutual aid,” said County Executive Allan H. Kittleman. “With thousands expected to be in attendance, we wanted to support the efforts of our neighbors and do what we can to assist.”
HCDFRS will provide four LIFEPAK monitors which are equipped with automated and manual defibrillations along with functions to monitor vitals and other cardiac symptoms. The LIFEPAK monitor is extremely beneficial when responding to cardiac arrests and enhances the level of care that emergency service technicians and paramedics can provide. Although the ambulances that Narberth Ambulance owns are fully stocked with LIFEPAK monitors, they need loaners to provide standby coverage to the additional townships that border the Pope’s motorcade and parade routes. The temporary loan of this equipment will not impact operations here in Howard County.
“When large crowds gather, it creates additional challenges for first responders, especially as we respond to medical incidents,” said Fire Chief John S. Butler. “Having the right supply of equipment can literally make the difference in the chances of survival so we wanted to make sure that Narberth had everything they needed to meet the demand.”
In addition to providing supplies and support during past Papal visits and Presidential inaugurations, HCDFRS has also answered the call and provided assistance during man-made and natural disasters like Hurricane Katrina, Hurricane Isabel, Topical Storm Sandy, the LaPlata Tornado and the 2011 North Carolina Tornado.
