Manassas to boost Advanced Life Support service; first ALS-equipped fire apparatus ready March 5

On March 5, 2019, the City of Manassas Fire and Rescue System will increase Advanced Life Support (ALS) service delivery to the community with Rescue Engine 521.  Located at the Greater Manassas Volunteer Rescue Squad (GMVRS) building, on Center Street, Rescue Engine 521 will be capable of providing Advanced Life Support (ALS) care, according to Patty Prince, communications manager for the city.

Rescue Engine 521 is the first advanced life support capable fire apparatus in the City of Manassas Fire and Rescue system. It now has a cardiac monitor, medication bag and other ALS equipment that will allow paramedics riding the apparatus to perform life-saving interventions until an ambulance can arrive on scene.

The City of Manassas Fire and Rescue System responded to 6,378 calls for service and 11,258-unit responses in 2018.  Emergency Medical response continues to generate the highest call volume at 72 percent of the responses, Prince said.  ALS care is required 48 percent of the time for patients, she noted.  This initiative will reduce the time lifesaving skills are delivered to residents and visitors of the City of Manassas.