In a significant step forward for emergency medical services, Kent County is proud to announce its participation in a new life-saving initiative: paramedic units will now carry whole blood, enabling immediate transfusions at the scene of traumatic injuries. This initiative, part of a statewide program that also includes Sussex and New Castle Counties and Delaware State Police Aviation, ensures rapid blood replacement in critical situations where every second counts.

This initiative is made possible thanks to the financial support provided by the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA). Because of their backing the rollout of this crucial program requires minimal county-level expenses. The program will begin in Kent County by November 2024 and is expected to benefit an estimated 200 trauma patients annually, including victims of violence-related injuries and motor vehicle accidents.

Deputy Chief John Tinger, Department of Public Safety, Emergency Medical Services, expressed the importance of this initiative: "Carrying blood allows paramedics to administer life-saving treatment on the scene of emergencies where patients are experiencing severe blood loss. By providing blood in the field, we can stabilize patients more quickly, reducing the risk of complications and improving their chances of survival once they arrive at a trauma center."

This program is coordinated with County Emergency Medical Service agencies, Delaware Health and Social Services' Office of Emergency Medical Services and the Blood Bank of Delmarva to ensure smooth implementation across the state.

To support this life-saving initiative, Kent County residents are encouraged to donate blood. In collaboration with the Blood Bank of Delmarva, the Kent County Levy Court, Department of Public Safety will host a community blood drive on Friday, October 11, 2024, at the Kent County Administrative Complex (555 Bay Road, Room 220, Dover, DE). The event will happen from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and is open to all eligible donors.

Chief Kevin Sipple, Director of Public Safety, emphasized the vital role of blood donations in saving lives: "Whole blood is essential for treating patients who experience blood loss due to traumatic injuries. Administering blood in the field helps restore blood volume and oxygen, preventing shock and increasing the chances of survival before the patient reaches the hospital."

Residents interested in participating in the blood drive should bring valid identification, eat a healthy meal, and drink plenty of water before donating. For more information, visit the Kent County website or contact Danielle Patterson-Fields at Kent County Levy Court’s Human Resources Department at (302) 744-1918. 

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