Buffalo EMS Director Karri White: When Every Moment Counts

September is National Preparedness Month. During the month, communities and families are encouraged to make plans and conduct drills to ensure they are as prepared as possible for emergencies.

Johnson County Ambulance Service’s Buffalo EMS director, Karri White, appeared on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse and offered tips to help ensure EMTs and other first responders arrive quickly and prepared for an emergency.

No stranger to emergencies, White has worked in prehospital care for 25 years. She knows that during an emergency, every second counts.

White said her team deploys as soon as 911 dispatchers determine that an ambulance is needed. Communication is vital when lives are on the line. As the crew travels to the scene, information from the dispatch center helps members prepare for the specific emergency. White said this is one reason dispatchers keep callers on the line.

K. White

Remaining on the line with the telecommunications officer, or 911 dispatcher, is vital. If necessary, dispatchers can provide CPR instructions. They also help calm and reassure callers to prevent difficult situations from becoming worse.

White said that although people may not be at their best during high-stress situations, callers can take steps to save precious time for emergency personnel traveling to the scene.

K. White

In rural northern Johnson County, distance is the greatest challenge for White and her team. Although many of these tips may seem simple, they can easily be forgotten during a stressful situation. Knowing what to do to ensure responders can find and help someone as quickly as possible can save a life.

Ready.gov recommends that families discuss what to do during an emergency. Parents should teach children when and how to call 911, ensure they know their address and explain what information they may need to give a dispatcher. Emergency planning can also help family members feel more confident and prepared when a crisis occurs.

To learn more tips on preparedness during this nationally observed month, click here.