Medic preps for Hurricane Irma

Medic officials said they have been in touch with state officials to discuss emergency plans in wake of Hurricane Irma.

Their agency has already asked for more paramedics to work Monday night when the storm is expected to come through the Charlotte area.

Emergency officials called some staff to be on standby to be deployed in case other states need help. Medic deputy director Kevin Staley said their mass casualty bus would likely be deployed.

It can carry 18 patients, with seven staff members. It is large enough to roll in wheel chairs and stretchers. The bus was used last year during Hurricane Matthew to evacuate people from a nursing home outside of Charleston.

“The versatility of this bus, it is able to do what five to six ambulances together could do,” Staley said.

Staley said the bus helps keep many of their resources responding to 911 calls.

“That allows us to keep other ambulances on the road to continue to respond because this very large vehicle can handle more at a time," Staley said.

Medic officials said they have been in close communication with state emergency officials. They said they are crafting more detailed plans in the next 24-36 hours.

“I’m not as concerned here, but certainly on the South Carolina, North Carolina coast we could have a request like we did last year for Hurricane Matthew.”

Medic officials said during Hurricane Hugo it was difficult for their ambulances to get around because of downed trees and construction equipment on the road.

It’s unclear what damage Hurricane Irma will cause, but medic said they are prepared for anything.

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