Life Support Programs
The four distinct seasons, enjoyed by the thousands of residents that live here, attract over 2 million visitors annually. In addition to those who come to “play”, 11 million people pass through this stretch of I-90 en-route to other destinations each year. A Vast Response Area: The entire Emergency Medical Services area extends from Snoqualmie Pass Summit east to Elk Heights, from Quartz Mountain and Tamarack Springs to the south, and north to Salmon La Sac and the Alpine Lake Wilderness.
80% of the Upper County is publicly held by federal and state agencies. That land, while providing the rich views and recreational opportunities that make the area so desirable, contribute no tax base to local fire and rescue districts. 11 million people pass through I-90 each year.
We must be prepared when…
- a major accident occurs
- accidents happen simultaneously
- you need the nearest trauma center
- I-90, I-82 or Blewett Pass closes
- an airlift cannot fly in or out due to weather
- you need medical care
Life Support raises funds to purchase extrication and medical equipment, Heli pads, 4x 4 aid units. We also provide training for our volunteers and have formed a partnership with Swedish in providing a solution for access to rural health care.
Recent Successes and Current Challenges
First Phase Construction on Fire Station 73 along I-90 ( Golf Course Road Exit) began in October, and was completed in March. Construction on Fire Station 72 at the east end of Cle Elum at the junction of Hwy 970 and Airport Road North towards Blewett pass began about the same time and was completed in February. Funding for the second phase of these EMS/Fire facilities which provides access to all points east and west on the interstate. Funding for the second phase will provide these stations to become 24/7 on site staff staffing for the volunteers. Currently all volunteers respond from their homes through out the area, which impacts response times and patient outcomes. Current the need is to complete phase two of construction and raise funds to purchase extrication rigs, 4x4 aid units, tenders and a communication platform system.