Destin Fire Control District provides Advanced Life Support (ALS) First Responder service to the residents and visitors of Destin, FL and surrounding areas. The EMS system is designed so that an ALS First Responder, usually fire department vehicles, arrive first on the scene and stabilize the patient or start EMS procedures, and then the ambulance provider, usually Okaloosa County EMS, will transport the patient to a hospital. This system allows the First Responder unit to go back in service and be available for the next medical emergency. There are very few systems in the United States that can compare with the exceptional level of emergency medical care provided to the residents and visitors of Destin.

Frequently Asked EMS Questions

     When I call for an ambulance, why does a fire engine show up?

Destin Fire Control District fire trucks are strategically located throughout Destin and staffed with fully trained and equipped Firefighters cross trained as Paramedics. Each ALS apparatus carry the same equipment that is found on the EMS ambulances.  Also, all paramedics are trained the same rigorous standards, including Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support.  Additionally, all District personnel function under the Okaloosa County EMS medical protocols and report to the same Medical Directors.  This team approached has resulted in the saving of countless lives since its inception. They respond to treat and stabilize the patient prior to the arrival of the ambulance. In a true medical emergency, the difference between life and death can be a matter of seconds.

     What does Advanced Life Support (ALS) mean?

The Term Advanced Life Support is used to describe advanced equipment and procedures such as cardiac monitoring (including 12 lead ECG's), cardiac pacing, intravenous access (starting IV's), endotracheal intubation (the placement of a breathing tube into the airway), chest decompressions, and the delivery of life saving medications.

     What is the difference between an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and a Paramedic?

An EMT is trained in basic life support skills (BLS), such as assessment, triage and treatment of medical and trauma patients, Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), the use of Automatic External Defibrillator's (AED's), and the delivery of oxygen.

A Paramedic is trained beyond the BLS level to include advanced skills, such as cardiac rhythm interpretation, the application of an external cardiac pacemaker, endotracheal intubation (the placement of a breathing tube), Intravenous (IV) and Intraosseous therapy, and the ability to administer various cardiac, respiratory and pain medications.

As a first responding ALS program, the District responds to each medical or trauma call with an Okaloosa County EMS ambulance that provides transport to the appropriated medical facility.