Emergency Medical Services

In addition to fighting fires, the VRFA provides Basic Life Support (BLS) services to our communities. Every VRFA firefighter is a state certified Emergency Medical Technician - Defibrillation Technician (EMT-D). Our firefighter/EMT-Ds are trained to deliver oxygen therapy, perform blood sugar monitoring, administer epinephrine, perform cardiac defibrillation, and identify and treat a myriad of medical and traumatic emergencies. VRFA firefighter/EMT-Ds work under the guidelines established by our Medical Program Director, a University of Washington/Harborview Medical Center physician.

VRFA aid units are staffed around-the-clock with two firefighter/EMT-Ds, and our engine companies have a minimum of three firefighter/EMT-Ds available 24/7. The VRFA also works closely with King County Medic One, regional hospitals, and private ambulance companies to ensure that our citizens receive the very best in pre-hospital care.

As BLS providers, the VRFA is part of King County's tiered-response system, where firefighter/EMT-Ds provide initial response to 911 calls and King County Medic One paramedics provide Advanced Life Support (ALS). This internationally renowned system is widely considered a model for pre-hospital emergency medical care and is funded through the voter approved Medic One Levy. In fact, the VRFA annually receives operating revenue generated through this levy.

BLS Transport Fee FAQs