The Canton Department of Public Safety has seen great success with Advanced Life Support (ALS) services since its implementation in June 1999. A large number of the department's transports, more than 70 percent, have relied on ALS.

Firefighters report having seen real improvements in their patients en route to the hospital. There are five ALS units in service at all times.

The firefighters utilize the latest equipment and training to ensure that the patient receives the best pre-hospital care possible. Don't be surprised if firefighters are at the scene a little longer than in days gone by. ALS duties include establishing radio contact with the hospital, starting IV's, administering drugs if necessary, employing heart monitors, using advanced airway techniques, dressing wounds, providing oxygen and monitoring vital signs. These advanced procedures will add to our "on-scene" time but this emergency room-type care can make a real difference in overall recovery.

The bottom line is a higher quality of life for Canton residents.

For further information on ALS services contact Canton Fire Department Administration at 734-394-5455.