Technical Rescue Team at GREMS
On October 12, 2007 Gila River EMS further demonstrated it's commitment to the community when three of its members obtained full technical rescue technician certification by graduating from the Phoenix Fire Department TRT class 2007-2. William Treadwell, Michael Eno, and Alyssa T. Van Story successfully completed the five week (200 Hour) training course certified by the Office of the State Fire Marshall. Graduates received training in rope I, II, and III, tree rescue, helicopter operations, trench rescue, structural collapse, confined space rescue, and water accident management required by the program and the Technician is the highest level of certification available.
With the certification of these members the Special Operations Division of GREMS has taken the first steps towards full participation in the Gila River Multi-Agency Technical Rescue Team. The Gila River TRT, currently led by the GRPD Ranger Division will be comprised of EMTs, Paramedics, Police Officers, and Firefighters from all three public safety departments of the Gila River Indian Community. This TRT is a unique and groundbreaking example of inter-agency cooperation and teamwork by combining resources from the three departments to provide an important service to the community. Treadwell and Van Story have already joined forces with the previously TRT certified Rangers, Richard Sichling and Stanford Benally, participating in skills practice, physical fitness training, and team development. The four member team also currently represents the Gila River Indian Community at Phoenix Fire sponsored continuing education sessions with several valley fire departments. The Gila River FD plans to send members to the next available course rounding out the team by mid-year 2008.
GREMS is fully committed to the success of the TRT program for the community. Team development is underway with recruitment and in-house training of operational level members. They are also sending two additional members to the next available full technician course.
By Alyssa T. Van Story, CEP
EMS TRT Coordinator
