WHEREAS, emergency medical services and law enforcement are vital public services in Stearns County; and WHEREAS, the members of emergency medical services and law enforcement agencies are ready to provide lifesaving care and protection for persons 24 hours a day, seven days a week; and WHEREAS, emergency medical and law enforcement teams consist of police officers, deputies, fire fighters, first responders, physicians, ambulance and emergency room personnel; and WHEREAS, access to quality emergency care dramatically improves the survival and recovery rate of those who experience sudden illness or injury; and WHEREAS, approximately two-thirds of all emergency medical services providers are volunteer; and WHEREAS, the members of emergency medical services teams, whether career or volunteer, engage in thousands of hours of specialized training and continuing education to enhance their lifesaving skills; and WHEREAS, injury prevention and the appropriate use of the EMS system will help reduce national health care costs; and WHEREAS, Stearns County residents benefit daily from the knowledge and skills of these highly-trained individuals; and WHEREAS, it is appropriate to recognize the value and contributions made by persons who make up the law enforcement and emergency medical services system; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the Stearns County Human Services Board does hereby recognize May 11-17, 2003 as Police Week, and May 18-24, 2003 as Emergency Medical Services Week to officially acknowledge the contributions made by the law enforcement officers and emergency medical services personnel serving the citizens of Stearns County. Leigh Lenzmeier
