Kat Kennedy, (407) 832-3387
kathleen.kennedy@ocfl.net

Orange County Firefighter Selected to Receive EMT of the Year by Florida Department of Health

Orlando, FL – July 13, 2016 – The Florida Department of Health has selected Orange County Fire Rescue Firefighter/EMT Ryan Allen as the 2016 Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) of the Year.

The State EMS Award recognizes an EMT who has demonstrated extraordinary qualities in patient care, medical control, as well as someone who has performed “above and beyond the call of duty.”

“We are honored to have one of our own firefighter/EMTs selected to receive this award,” said Fire Chief Otto Drozd III. “Firefighter/EMT Allen is an exceptional example of our department’s commitment to serving our community when it matters most, and we thank the Florida Department of Health for the recognition.”

Firefighter/EMT Ryan was awarded with the Medal of Valor by Orange County Fire Rescue and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office earlier this year. He was also named the 2015 Firefighter of the Year by the American Legion.

“In November, firefighter/EMT Allen risked his life to rescue a patient who was trapped in an upside-down vehicle that was partially submerged in water,” said Drozd. “He is a true hero who demonstrated service before self and exemplifies our core values of Duty, Respect and Integrity.”

Without an established air supply, Allen dove underwater in an attempt to locate the patient. Allen identified an air pocket and gasped for one last breath as he dove down into the submerged portion of the car. He rescued the trapped patient by removing the seatbelt and swam the patient to shore. His efforts enabled first responders to restore the patient’s vitals en route to the hospital.

The 26th Annual Excellence in EMS Awards ceremony will be held on July 13, 2016, at 5:30 p.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton at 5780 Major Blvd., Orlando, FL 32819.

About Orange County Fire Rescue: Orange County Fire Rescue is the largest fire and rescue department in Central Florida. It serves more than 990,000 citizens and visitors and responds to nearly 115,000 calls for service annually. The mission of the Orange County Fire and Rescue Department is to provide fire suppression, emergency medical and community risk reduction services to ensure our community can enjoy a high quality life and property protection delivered with compassion and integrity. Follow us on Twitter at @OCFireRescue.

About Orange County Government: Orange County Government strives to serve its residents and guests with integrity, honesty, fairness and professionalism. Located in Central Florida, Orange County includes 13 municipalities and is home to world-famous theme parks, one of the nation’s largest convention centers and a thriving life science research park. Seven elected members make up the Board of County Commissioners, including the Mayor, who is elected countywide. For more information, please visit www.OCFL.net or go to Orange County Government’s social media channels.

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