FDNY’s First Responder Program Continues Saving Lives

Engine 235 was the first company to be trained for CFR-D when the Fire Department merged with Emergency Medical Services in 1995. The first day, Engine 235 responded to 25 EMS runs and two 'All Hands' fires in a 24-hour period.

theBravest.com News  12/23/2008

The FDNY recently announced awards to over 100 of its Certified First Responder companies for the first six months of 2008. Pre-hospital Save Commendations were awarded to firefighters all over the City who responded to medical emergencies in their neighborhoods to provide immediate medical care while the waiting for FDNY EMS to arrive.

The First Responder program was implemented over 10 years ago by then-Mayor Giuliani. In 1995-1996, NYC EMS merged with the FDNY and both agencies have continued to improve their coordination, resulting in faster pre-hospital care as evidenced in these commendations. Click here to view the list of commendations.