DES reports successful response to winter storm 'Fern'; praises first responders and DPW

Director Jen Utz reported to the Emergency Services Board that winter storm Fern prompted a partial activation of the Emergency Operations Center and close coordination among fire departments, EMS, and county Department of Public Works crews.

Utz said partners "leaned forward" during planning and response, enabling first responders to reach people despite road closures. She singled out highway crews for quickly making roads passable and credited volunteer rescue squads for housing EMS personnel to avoid travel during the peak of the storm.

Utz also updated the board on staffing and operations: recent promotions to EMS captain and lieutenant, ongoing work to fill a chief’s position, approximately six EMTs in onboarding, and efforts to increase dispatch staffing; she reported the radio PM is wrapping up and the microwave project is progressing with vendor updates expected soon.

Board members thanked staff and volunteers for their work during the storm.