The BeginningIn 1973, the Commissioners Court took decisive action in response to a rapidly growing population and the urgent need for pre-hospital emergency care. A motion was introduced and approved to establish the Austin County Emergency Medical Services (EMS). With great anticipation, the towns of Bellville and Sealy welcomed the arrival of the first ambulances, which were affectionately designated as "Adam 1" and "Adam 2".
By 1974, the demand for emergency services continued to rise, leading to the approval of two additional units: "Adam 4", which was stationed in the vibrant community of Wallis, and "Medic 5", which began providing essential coverage in the expansive western reaches of Austin County. Initially, all units were staffed by dedicated volunteers who answered the call of duty through telephone dispatches managed by the Sheriff’s Department. As technology progressed, pagers and radios replaced traditional phone calls, enhancing communication and response times. Volunteers committed to 12-hour shifts, ensuring that emergency care was available around the clock, every day of the week. To uphold the highest standards of care, all volunteers were required to obtain certification in emergency care from the State of Texas, demonstrating their commitment to serving their community in times of need. TodayAustin County EMS now boasts four fully staffed full-time ambulances and a dedicated supervisor available 24 hours a day. Our leadership team includes a full-time Chief, Assistant Chief, Clinical Manager, Logistical/Fleet Manager and two Administrators.
In April 2025, Austin County proudly implemented new SDO/Guidelines, along with state-of-the-art LP35 monitors and Zoll ventilators. This is an exhilarating time to be part of such an extraordinary organization. Our focus is on enhancing our clinical capabilities and delivering the highest standard of patient care. We are dedicated to elevating rural EMS standards and instilling greater pride in our county and the exceptional services we provide. |
Tomorrow
What does tomorrow look like for us? Austin County, with its beautiful rural atmosphere, has long been a well-kept secret that we’ve all been proud to call home. However, it seems that secret may now be getting out. With the expansion of I-10 and the stunning countryside, it’s no surprise that more people are showing interest in our lovely county. This growth may be on the horizon, as individuals from both inside and outside our state are starting to take notice. As we anticipate this growth, it’s crucial that we remain poised to adapt to the needs of pre-hospital emergency medical services in the county. Our goal is to have an ambulance ready to respond whenever that inevitable moment arises. We are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all our citizens and visitors who live in and travel through our great county. |