SIOUX FALLS, SD (KELO AM) 11 seconds. Doesn't sound like much. But for Sioux Falls Fire/Rescue 11 seconds can be a game changer.
During a pilot program, Paramedics Plus, the city's ambulance service provider, was able to help identify more non-emergency calls, freeing up more time for Fire/Rescue to handle fires and other true emergency situations. The improved process shaved 11 seconds off Fire/Rescue response times.
"We saved 11 seconds, which doesn't sound like a lot, but when you look at the fire department, 11 seconds is a big number." Fire/Rescue Chief Jim Sideras told Sioux Falls City Council on Tuesday.
"When we can shave any time, it's a significant outcome, so that 11 seconds was a game changer." Sideras said.
The improved process during the pilot program also dramatically cut down the number of times Sioux Falls emergency officials had to call for resources from outside communities.
City Health Director Jill Franken told Council that Sioux Falls has a high performance, high quality EMS system, but there are always opportunities for improvement.
A multi-disciplinary team made up of fire, police, ems, and other stakeholders helped guide the pilot project for improvements.