Small, but mighty, Fox Twp. Ambulance staff continues to serve community

KERSEY - The Fox Township Ambulance Association, based in Kersey, responds to an average of 500 calls each year. The small, but effective ambulance service encompasses a fleet of three ambulances. All personnel are Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) with a few Emergency Medical Responders (EMRs) on staff as well. Like many ambulance services throughout the nation, especially those in rural areas, they are hurting for staff. Kathy Dowie, EMT and ambulance treasurer, said they welcome anyone interested in becoming an EMT and/or medic and working for the service. Training would be conducted outside of the facility through a licensed entity such as Save A Life Training Institute, newly established by Tom Tomaski, EMT trainer along with Jackie FinGado, St. Marys Ambulance office manager. “We are shortstaffed, but we are making do,” Dowie said. When dispatched the staff responds from their current location rather than quarter at the station. They rotate being on call. They are also sometimes assisted by paramedics from surrounding agencies. The current staff of the Fox Twp. Ambulance Association includes: Jerry Zimmerman, EMT, manager; Cameron Uhl, EMT, assistant manager; Cathy Zimmerman, EMT, secretary; Kathy Dowie, EMT, treasurer; Shane Buzard, EMT; Stephanie Buzard, EMT; Jamie Dowie, EMR; Matt Klaiber, EMT; John Lilja, EMT; Brian Mattiuz, EMR; Tammy Pesce, EMT; Alyssa Schneider, EMT and Missy Sheilds, EMT.