Members of the Vicksburg Fire Department (VFD) are known for doing exactly what their name entails: fighting fire. But Chief Derrick Stamps said there is far more to the job than just dealing with heat and fumes.

Stamps said, in addition to fighting traditional fire-related problems, helping at the scene of automobile accidents and even saving the occasional cat from a tree, each of his firefighters is also a trained EMT (emergency medical technician).  

“All of our firefighters are EMTs, but they aren’t all paramedics,” Stamps said. “The difference is one year of class (for paramedics). A paramedic can do advanced lifesaving, which is start an IV line, push medicine through the IV and those sort of things. The EMTs can do the basics, but not that.”

Stamps said paramedics are assigned to the Vicksburg Ambulance Service, which is under the umbrella of the Vicksburg Fire Department.

“The EMTs can provide basic lifesaving until the ambulance gets there, and they can provide advanced lifesaving procedures,” Stamps said.

Currently, Stamps said Vicksburg Fire Department has approximately 10 paramedics that only work with Vicksburg Ambulance Service, while another 11 firefighters are also trained paramedics who work shifts at both VFD and the ambulance service. Another nine trained paramedics work part time for VFD, Stamps said.

“The Vicksburg Fire Department proudly operates seven strategically located fire stations, employing a dedicated team of more than 105 skilled firefighters and emergency medical personnel,” he said. “In addition to its firefighting duties, the department also runs a vital ambulance service, establishing itself as one of only three fire departments in the state of Mississippi to offer such comprehensive emergency services. This commitment ensures the safety and well-being of the citizens of Vicksburg and Warren County.”

Stamps said it’s important at VFD to recognize the many men and women who risk their own safety day-in and day-out to provide services to local residents.

“I want to take this opportunity to recognize the exceptional members of our team who are dual-trained as both firefighters and paramedics,” Stamps said. “These dedicated individuals have undertaken rigorous training in both fields, equipping them with a unique skill set that allows them to respond effectively to a wide range of emergencies. Their ability to provide not only fire suppression, but also advanced medical care exemplifies a profound commitment to public safety. By accepting the challenge to serve in these dual roles, they ensure that our community receives comprehensive support in critical situations, demonstrating their unwavering dedication and readiness to assist whenever needed and serve on the front line of our community.”

Those VFD members include: Assistant Chief Daryl Carson; Capt. Michael Walker; Capt. Derrick Gardner; Capt. Tavares Hatchett; Lt. Troy Scott; Capt. Julian Tolliver; Capt. Bradley Wilson; Lt. Kimani Ratliff; firefighter David Allison; firefighter Kristin Blackledge; Capt. Reginald Galloway; Capt. JaBaris McDaniel; and Lt. Elwin Johnson.

“The Vicksburg Fire Department takes immense pride in its team of highly skilled paramedics who are trained in Advanced Life Support,” Stamps said. “Their expertise ensures that our community receives the highest standard of emergency care during critical times. This dedicated team goes above and beyond, embodying a deep commitment to excellence that has a truly life-changing impact on the individuals and families we serve.”

They include: Paramedic Anna Gilliland; Paramedic Jeremy Cooper; Paramedic Jason Harshbarger; Paramedic Courtney Tullos; Paramedic Brendan Gardner; and Paramedic Kelcy Buell.

“The Vicksburg Fire Department proudly highlights the vital role of its Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), who serve as the frontline providers of essential life support services,” Stamps continued. “Often operating behind the scenes, these dedicated professionals play a crucial but frequently overlooked role in emergency response operations, ensuring that victims receive immediate and effective care when it matters most. Their unwavering commitment and expertise are the backbone of the department’s mission to safeguard the community’s health and well-being.”

They include: EMT Veronica Williams; EMT Hanna Anderson; EMT Marquise Holmes; EMT Julianna Juve; EMT Josie Rogers; EMT Daniel Weeks; EMT Demond Patton; EMT Abrina Emerson; EMT Nicholas Stump;  EMT Chase Neilsen; EMT Mackenzie Clower; and  EMT Meredith Nielsen.

Stamps also said each ambulance is staffed by a dedicated team consisting of two members: an EMT, who serves as the driver, and a paramedic, who specializes in patient care. 

“Our department operates four Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulances around the clock, ensuring that we are always prepared to respond to emergencies,” he said. “Additionally, we can deploy more ambulances on any given day if needed, enabling us to effectively adapt to the community’s demands.”