T
40 YEARS
Tri-Community South EMS 40th Anniversary… a Look at the Fourth Decade Becky Brindle
For the past year, USC TODAY
has helped celebrate the 40th anniversary of Tri-Community South EMS (TCS) with a special article about each decade. Readers have learned about a lot of changes that occurred throughout the last 40 years. Equipment is more technologically advanced, ambulances are improved, and certification is more extensive. However, one thing has not changed. The service remains dedicated and includes hard-working employees who are happy to help their fellow citizens. “The care we give is very solid,” said supervisor Kevin Trichtinger.
Tri-Community South EMS fleet in 2017
TCS has earned numerous awards and recognitions during the last ten years. This past June, TCS received a three-year accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services for its compliance with national standards of excellence. TCS is one of approximately 180 ambulance services in the country to
successfully complete the voluntary review process, which includes completion of a comprehensive application and on-site review by national experts in emergency medical services. TCS has received this recognition every three years since 2006 (see article on page 49). Since 2015, TCS has participated in the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline EMS program, recognizing the need for better comprehensive care for those suffering from cardiovascular emergencies. TCS has been awarded Silver, Gold, and Bronze-Plus recognition in the program. In December 2013, TCS received recognition at the Master level in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s EMS for Children Voluntary Recognition Program. The multi-level system requires compliance with basic equipment standards, ChildLine background clearances for all personnel, advanced pediatric education for providers, and community outreach programs. As a result of the inspections and documentation gathered and provided, TCS was awarded recognition at the highest level. It made TCS among the first 20 EMS agencies in Pennsylvania to be recognized at the Master level. Thirteen TCS employees have been recommended for and have received the Star of Life award since the program’s
Tri-Community South EMS Honor Guard, May 2009 48
UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY
Winter 2018
TCS director Nora Helfrich (center) with Dave Britton (left) and Steve Britton (right), both of whom received the 2018 Star of Life award
implementation in 2007. The Stars of Life award is given to EMS providers who particularly exemplify the “efforts and importance of the job our everyday heroes provide to the residents of the Commonwealth.” Most recently in 2018, TCS’s Dave Britton and Steve Britton were honored as the first father/son Star of Life awardees at a ceremony in Harrisburg. In November 2008, TCS director Nora Helfrich was recognized by the Emergency Medical Service Institute (EMSI) for her outstanding contributions to EMS in southwestern Pennsylvania.
Tri-Community South EMS booth at the 2017 Upper St. Clair Community Day
