Auburn, Ala. – After an 18-month process, the City of Auburn achieved its Advanced Life Support (ALS) license on Oct. 18, 2023. Since then, the Auburn Fire Department has been working to equip personnel and emergency vehicles to better serve the community’s medical rescue needs.

“This was truly an investment for the Auburn community,” said Fire Chief John Lankford. “In addition to advanced treatment capabilities, our firefighters have further opportunities for advancement within the department as licensed paramedics.”

Under the ALS license, the Auburn Fire Department’s licensed paramedics can provide more enhanced life support procedures, medications and transportation services for critical patients in need.

To do this, Auburn Fire has worked to grow its rescue truck fleet, upgrade medical devices carried on all fire trucks — such as cardiac monitors and LUCAS compression devices, — and increase the number of licensed paramedics. In addition, Auburn Fire hired an EMS officer to oversee all EMS operations within the department.

Today, Auburn Fire employs over 20 licensed paramedics with additional plans to expand. Each firefighter pursuing their paramedic license is making a significant personal investment as it requires a year and a half of training. The cost for this training is partially funded by the department.

Auburn Fire Department is dedicated to meeting the needs of its community’s fast-growing population.

“Residents will continue to see a reinforced presence of Auburn’s fire services and quick on-scene times for those in need of emergency services,” said Lankford. “This one-year celebration is an achievement for Auburn Fire and recognizes the department’s dedication to providing life-saving services to the community.”