Emergencies

[fos'l]

Hope this doesn't start a crap storm, but I just discovered something that could be of interest to the group, although my information might be inaccurate (two sources so far). Anyway, recently I encountered two helicopter evacuations, one on Maple Springs and one in Santiago Oaks. My friend and I stayed with the motorcyclist on Maple Springs until help arrived since the guy looked like he might go into shock (plus, obviously, it was the right thing to do). We were surprised there seemed to be conflict between the Sheriff's S&R team and the Firefighters at the scene. Anyway, the upshot is this: AFAIK, the Fire Department's services are free while you'll receive a bill from the Sheriff's department. Anyone know any more about this?

 

[mtnbikej]

I kinda noticed the same thing with an air lift at the Oaks. The air medic and the firefighter were arguing about how to treat and where to take the patient.

The airlifts are becoming a weekly occurrence.

 

[SnakeCharmer]

I have been one of those that was airlifted in the past (in L.A. County). It is true that Sheriff will send a bill and Firefighters will not. Thank God it was L.A County Fire that flew me out when I needed an air lift. Never got a bill. Nice guys, too. They were genuinely concerned for my well being.

 

[RS VR6]

Get Calstar?

https://calstar.org/

 

[Albacore]

I can't speak for the sheriffs but generally fire will not charge as it is part of the emergency services provided by your tax dollars. I asked our guys (LA County Fire) specifically and was told there is no charge for emergency services. Look at the helicopter as the same paramedics that would show up whenever you call 911, just in a different vehicle. But in Riverside County air transport services are provided by Mercy Air -- a for-profit air ambulance service. Depending on the nature of the emergency request you may ge tMercy Air, CalFire or RivCo Sheriffs; and most likely a bill. Like Snake Charmer mentioned, if you're gonna crash and need to be flown out, do it in LA Co on a clear day as you won't get a bill from LACoFD. However, if it's bad weather, we won't fly and you'll get Sheriff Air Rescue 5. Any other county you'll probably be charged.

 

[fos'l]

Other aspect at Maple was the S&R guys weren't paramedics and were ready to put the individual (who was in great pain) on a stretcher. Scary (to me).

Also, wonder whether you're permitted to tell the Sheriffs that you're waiting for the Fire Department. I think the cost for keeping a helicopter (no less the two at each accident) in the air is pretty high.