Everyday Heroes: North Memorial Ambulance [VIDEO]

BRAINERD -- When emergencies arise, ambulance crews spring into action to provide care for those who are injured.

Stationed in Brainerd, North Memorial Ambulance has the largest service area in the state. They have seven crews that are there 24/7.

Kevin Lee is the Manager of North Memorial Ambulance. He says they try to provide the

best service for their patients.

"The level of care we provide, in the EMS system, is advanced level care. They'll get the same level of service, if not more as they would in a metropolitan area."

An ambulance can be pictured as a hospital with wheels. It's fully stocked with all the proper equipment.

Each day crews inspect the vehicle, to make sure it has everything needed for the day.

All crews consist of one paramedic on board, which allows them to treat patients prior to arriving at the hospital.

Darren Kiefer is a paramedic for North Memorial Ambulance. He says the ambulance can operate just like an emergency room.

"We can do a lot of things they can do in the ER." "We carry the same types of drugs and treatments a hospital does."

While an ambulance is an emergency vehicle, crews need to be careful while on the road. Lee says "driving with red lights and sirens on is dangerous. Not just for crews and the patient but for motorists as well."

Unless a patient absolutely needs emergency transportation, North Memorial Ambulance will not charge them to come out. Which is why Lee encourages people to call even if they are not sure.

"If you are not sure call us and we will come," says Lee. "If there is nothing wrong and you don't need us, that's fine we will leave."

“Everyday Heroes” is a weekly WJON News feature spotlighting those who put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe.