Chatham Emergency Services Update

2021 in Review and Entering 2022

As it is the first month of my sharing an update from the Skidaway Division, allow me to say Hello! As noted in the January Journal, I have assumed the role of Division Chief, but I am so fortunate to say that Chief Ruppert is staying with the Division and will be filling the role of Deputy Division Chief. Her guidance and knowledge will be critical for the Division as we continue into 2022.

Here is a quick review of 2021. I know we get questions as it relates to all those siren noises heard from time to time and what does it all mean. 2021 was another busy year for Chatham Emergency Services. Over the course of the year, there were nearly 1,300 medical and fire calls just on Skidaway. A huge shout out to the First Responders for handling more than 1,000 medical calls! On the fire side, we were lucky enough to see a decrease of calls on the island. However, we had an increase for the rest of the central battalion that the Skidaway Division serves.

In sharing the numbers, I hope it helps explain the number of sirens. I also stress the importance of only calling 911 for life and death emergencies. So far in 2022, we are seeing a dramatic spike in 911 calls, and it is overwhelming our ambulances and the area hospitals. However, know we are ready for what comes in 2022. We had two members become nationally certified firefighters in 2021, and we have three new members about to start that process in February of this year. With that said, we always are looking for new volunteers to join the Division. If you live on Skidaway and are 18 years of age or older with a passion to serve the community, let us know!

Lastly, the County has agreed to fully fund the Department in 2022, which will ensure we have the resources and equipment to accomplish our mission.

As always if you have any questions, please feel free to email me (HMarr@chathames.org).

Thanks!