The May meeting of the Bayfield-Ashland Counties EMS Council was called to order by Gary Victorson, Vice-President of the Council. The meeting was held in the Manitou Island Room of MMC/Ashland.

Motion made by Tam Hofman, seconded by Teresa Gunderson, to approve the minutes of the April meeting as written. Motion carried.

NO TREASURER’S REPORT.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

MDAC (Medical Director Advisory Committee) – John Schulz, medical director, reported that MDAC was reviewing a new c-spine protocol. Use of clinical indicators to determine whether or not to immobilize has been suspended. He reviewed the discussion of MDAC including additional mechanism of injury information. The hope would be to have training in July and implement the protocol after that.

John also reported on research he had done related to website planning. He suggested it could be a useful tool for the Council for maintaining a schedule of activities, public information, continuing education, etc. He asked if the Council would be willing to fund the website and if there was a commitment of individuals to develop and maintain the site. Gary Victorson volunteered Iron River to pay the first years costs for the website. Committee of volunteers included Ron Brendalen, Gina LaGrew and Jan Victorson. Discussion of what information to include for the public and for the membership.

Motion made by Teresa Gunderson, seconded by Mary Ross, to move forward with development of a Council website. Motion carried.

RTAC (Regional Trauma Advisory Council) – Merrilee reported that RTAC continues to work on developing triage guidelines. The RTAC is purchasing brochures that can be used by services for public education.

Discussion about use of medical helicopter.

Fire and EMS Public Awareness and Recruitment event – The Be SOMEBODY Public Awareness and Recruitment event went very well. Departments shared experiences. Several had inquiries during the event from folks interested in volunteering. Suggestion that next year it be held without the competition of a WITC burn and the Minnesota fishing opener.

AIRBAG DETECTIVE – Dave Long, known nationwide as the airbag detective, will be present “The Top 10 Airbag Safety Stories and Pitfalls of Driving Hot” at the Bayfield County EOC (117 E Sixth St, Washburn) on June 16^th. The Bayfield County Fire Association has agreed to pay the presenter fees with the hopes that the EMS Council will pay for food – pizza was suggested.

Motion made by Gina LaGrew, seconded by Teresa Gunderson, to purchase food for the Airbag Detective presentation on June 16^th. Motion carried.

NEXT MEETING – The next meeting of the Council will be June 24 at Memorial Medical Center.

Motion made by Tam Hofman, seconded by Dan Diamon, to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried. Meeting adjourned.

IN ATTENDANCE

Bill Andresen Bayfield

Ron Brendalen Mellen

Merrilee Carlson MMC EMS Coordinator

Dan Diamon Gold Cross

Teresa Gunderson Mason

Tam Hofman South Shore

Gina LaGrew Red Cliff

Mike LaGrew Red Cliff

Mary Ross Madeline Island

Stan Sadenwasser Luke ONE

John Schulz Medical Director

Dorothy Tank Ashland County EM

Gary Victorson Iron River

Jan Victorson Bayfield County EM