Nichols, Iowa Centennial Book
Nichols - Our Town - 1984
FIRST RESPONDERS
Nichols, Iowa Centennial Book 1884-1984, page 76-77
By Becky ConnellA community survey taken by the Community Club in June 1982 showed a great need for Nichols to have some type of emergency medical services.
In November of that same year, several local citizens began the 48 hours of training required to become a First Responder.
What is a First Responder?
A first Responder is a person able to respond to an emergency medical situation and provide assistance until an ambulance arrives at the scene.
The group finished their training in February under the direction of Jack Gerstbrein, with the assistance of members of the West Liberty Fire Department. Money was raised through donations from local and area individuals and organizations to purchase a Rescue Unit and equipment needed when responding to a call.
Calls are monitored through individual pagers, carried by each First Responder who is on call at that particular time. Patients are not transported by the First Responders in the Rescue Unit. The vehicle provides a means of quick access to the scene where assistance begins while waiting the arrival of an ambulance.
Members of the Nichols First Responders are Denny Albrecht, Becky Connell, Russ Grim, Sue Grosjean, John Hester, Rich Hillyer, Dave Kaalberg, Bob McDonald, Dort Mills, Melodi Mills, Phil Mills, Ron Oostendorp and Debbie Rockwell.Photos:
~ First Responders, 1983. – page 76.
Back, from Lt., David Kaalberg, Richard Hillyer, Becky Connell, Ron Oostendorp, Russ Grim, Front, Director Jack Gerstbrein, Phillip Mills, Sue Grosjean, Dennis Albrecht, John Hester.
~ Presentation of portapower extrication device. – page 76.
The Nichols First Responders recently received a 10 ton portapower extrication device to be used at the scene of auto accidents. Esther and Leroy Christofferson, Ron and Ann Wieskamp and Harry and JoAnn Christofferson donated the equipment. Picutred above center is Harry Christofferson who presented the device to Responders Russ Grim [left] and Phil Mills. April 14, 1984.
~ Jack Gerstbrein, left, accepts a check for $1,000 on behalf of the Nichols Frist Responder group from Keith Barnhart of Farmer’s & Merchant’s Savings Bank. Gerstbrein was the instructor for the eight week program completed this week. The First Responders must wait for medical emergency and communication equipment to arrive before assuming their duties. – page 77.
~ Nichols First Responder trainees, Ron Oostendorp and John Hester stand in front of the new emergency vehicle recently purchased by the group. the van will carry First Responders, trained in emergency medical care, as well as equipment for the responders and the Nichols Volunteer Fire Department. – page 77.
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