Pawtucket Fire among first in state with full Paramedic EMS Division, highest level of care

The City of Pawtucket’s Fire Department is one of the first departments in the State of Rhode Island to have all four rescues at the paramedic level, the highest level. 

“This is a major achievement that our department has been striving for for quite some time,” said Chief John Trenteseaux. “Our men and women of the Pawtucket Fire Department have been working tirelessly to ensure that we can provide the highest level of care to all residents, throughout the city.”

Prior to the state’s inspection, only two of the four rescues were at paramedic level. The two rescues at the cardiac level, have now upgraded to paramedic. Paramedics are capable of providing more oral and intravenous medications than EMT Cardiacs and have extensive knowledge of subjects such as physiology, cardiology, medical procedures, and medications.

Additionally, paramedics are trained to a higher level than EMTs at treating acute illnesses and injuries and are able to perform skills such as tracheotomies, thoracostomy (needle chest decompression), IV medication infusions, and advanced airway procedures.

“Our Pawtucket Fire Department consistently strives for excellency with the best interest of residents in mind,” said Mayor Donald R. Grebien. “I want to thank Fire Chief Trenteseaux and Public Safety Director, Tina Goncalves, for all that they do to serve and protect Pawtucket residents, day in and day out.”

For additional questions, please contact the Pawtucket Fire Department at 401- 725-1422.