The Robertson County judge executive said they are depending on volunteers from across the state to fill all shifts until Monday, Oct. 30. All surrounding counties have agreed to mutual aid for Robertson Co.

The Kentucky Association of EMTs has been coordinating volunteer coverage for Robertson County since a plea for outside help appeared on the Kentucky EMS Connection's Discussion Forum two weeks ago. The county's judge executive and a county magistrate attend the Kentucky Board of Emergency Medical Services meeting this week, and met with Lt. Governor Steven Henry after the meeting, in attempts to find solutions to their problems.

Robertson County has taken possession of their new ambulance which replaces one totaled in a wreck. They now have two ambulances. The new ambulance has been inspected by the EMS Branch and has been placed in service. .

"Every shift for every day though the 30th is open now," said David Mather, who has been coordinating the volunteer relief effort for KAEMT. "I am asking everyone who can volunteer to contact me by e-mail to schedule their time and receive directions. They will need to take copies of all certifications with them and will have to complete an application for employment for Robertson County EMS so that they will be covered by workers comp and liability," Mather said.

Robertson County EMS averages two runs each day. "If volunteers wish, they may work an entire weekend. That's been the way things seem to work best for the volunteers that have so far to travel," Mather said.

Mather says the response for help from Kentucky's EMS community has been fantastic. "I have had e-mails from Trigg County, Paducah, Owensboro, Northern Kentucky, Tompkinsville, Franklin-Simpson, Greenup County. Mt. Sterling, Madison County" and others, Mather said.