CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — Clarksville Fire Rescue is raising its minimum training standards, requiring most firefighters to be certified as emergency medical responders, or EMRs.
Fire Chief Montgomery told council members the change reflects the reality of modern fire service, noting that nearly 80% of calls handled by the department are medical emergencies, not fires.
Until now, not all firefighters responding on fire engines were trained to provide medical care. Under the new policy, EMR certification will become the minimum standard for firefighters working 24-hour shifts…