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Dutchess County has launched the EMS Matters campaign, aiming to highlight the critical role of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in the community. County Executive Sue Serino emphasized the importance of EMS in providing life-saving services during unexpected emergencies. Over the coming weeks, the county will share vital information about EMS and its contributions to the community, as well as plans to ensure its continued success.
The campaign is part of a broader initiative to address the EMS crisis in Dutchess County, which includes a historic $2 million investment in EMS. This funding will support supplemental ambulance coverage, a public awareness campaign, and efforts to tackle workforce shortages. The county plans to partner with municipalities to enhance EMS response and reliability by contracting with commercial providers, reducing the overuse of mutual aid services.
Additionally, the county has introduced the Fly Car Grant Program, providing up to $20,000 in funding for life-saving equipment for fire departments, rescue squads, and ambulance corps. This program aims to improve emergency response capabilities and encourage EMS recruitment through unified messaging on fly car vehicles.
County Executive Serino stated, "This historic investment represents a significant milestone in ensuring the safety and well-being of all Dutchess County residents." The Dutchess County Legislature is set to vote on the 2025 Budget, which includes these initiatives, by Monday (December 18).