BUNNELL, Fla. - Flagler County's defending national champion Paramedics Competition team is headed back to the Czech Republic to defend the title. Participating in the International competition with teams from all over the world was a real adventure and learning experience for Flagler County's team last year and this year it will prove to be no different with the added pressure of being the defending champions, Team Captain Dennis Kline said. Last year the team took first place in competition against a team from New York and teams from Japan, Hungary, Austria and Crete.
The competition is by invitation only and Flagler County was the only U.S. team invited back to the competition. The team kicks off the tour with a state-wide competition in Miami on May 19 and then on to New York with a promised spot on the Today Show May 20 at 9 a.m. Then they are off to the competition in Czech Republic on May 21.
Kline, a Firefighter Paramedic with Flagler County's Fire Rescue service says the competition sharpens the skills of the team members and in turn other firefighters and paramedics with Flagler County. "Competing with paramedics from around the world we learn different techniques, gain speed in delivering care to patients and new ways to use equipment," Kline said. "The ability to compete at this level speaks volumes for the professional ability of our paramedics."
The team includes: Flight Paramedic Caryn Prather, Lt. Cody King, Lt. Mike Pius, Firefighter Paramedic Dennis Kline (team captain), Fire Fighter Paramedic John Moscowitz and Firefighter Paramedic Randy Stringfellow. Flagler County Fire Rescue Chief Don Petito will accompany them.
The team raises its own traveling expenses. Individuals who want to donate can call 386-479-4025.