(La Porte County, IN) - A local first responder has been recognized for his work in helping with medical calls for service.

 

Warren Smith was named "First Responder of the Year" yesterday.

 

The award is given annually by the La Porte County Emergency Medical Service.

 

 

 

Smith, who's the assistant fire chief for the Coolspring Township Volunteer Fire Department, said the award made him feel good on the inside.

 

“It was a true honor to be nominated for it but to actually be chosen for it was a big surprise.  I had no idea I was even nominated,” he said.

 

Smith responds mostly to medical emergencies to help paramedics and emergency medical technicians with things such as loading patients into ambulances.

 

He also makes himself available to help with CPR and other life saving measures.

 

On average, Smith said he responds to about 30 EMS related calls, including motor vehicle accidents, every month.

 

“We’ve covered stabbings.  We’ve covered gunshot wounds.   Every type of call you could possibly imagine we respond to,” he said.

 

Smith has been a first responder for about 25-years.

 

“A lot of it is getting comfortable with what you’re doing and knowing the people.  They get comfortable with you and they know your abilities.  It all falls into place,” he said.