When someone in Brooks County calls 9-1-1 for an ambulance, there's a chance there isn't one available.
That's because there are only two.
Falfurrias Fire Chief Ruben Ramirez told 3NEWS that at least 20 times a month they are both tied up when someone calls one.
But, things are about to change, thanks to a $2.4 million Operation Lone Star grant.
About $800,000 will be used to help the volunteer fire department buy new vehicles and put three fulltime EMTs on the street.
Ramirez, also the county emergency management coordinator, says the grant will allow him to cut down on ambulance calls by using new EMTs as part of a community paramedic program.
County Judge Eric Ramos told 3NEWS Brooks County is also trying to secure a $20 million EPA grant which would help it to buy its own ambulance. This would then make three ambulances available to respond throughout the county.
County Judge Eric Ramos told 3NEWS Brooks County is also trying to secure a $20 million EPA grant which would help it to buy its own ambulance. This would then make three ambulances available to respond throughout the county.
"This will plug in some of the holes and take care of some of the needs that our contract with Allegiance can’t meet," he said.
