Columbus County will handle emergency medical calls to Nakina for the immediate future, a press release from the county said today (Friday).
County commissioners voted Oct. 18 to cancel Nakina Fire and Rescue’s EMS contract with the county, citing missed calls and other problems. The department provides emergency medical care for much of the extreme southern corner of Columbus.
County spokesperson Amanda Prince said that the county will handle EMS duties in Nakina until a more permanent arrangement — including a change of leadership – can be affected.
“The Board (of Commissioners) has directed the Columbus County Emergency Service staff to take the necessary steps to ensure that coverage will be uninterrupted,” the press release said.
A county Quick Response Vehicle (QRV) has been deployed to the Old Dock Fire Department to add paramedic coverage to the district and strengthen medical response to the Old Dock and Nakina Districts.
“Discussions are continuing with the community about a potential reorganization of the Nakina Fire and Rescue Department,” the release said, “but in the event the department is not able to put in place a new leadership structure that meets the Commissioners’ approval, coverage will be provided from other departments.
“The Columbus County Board of Commissioners continue to take the necessary steps to protect its citizens and to provide every citizen with the level of care and protection they deserve.”
The county, not the privately operated Columbus County EMS, will be handling Nakina’s rescue calls.
This is a developing story.
