South Whidbey Fire/EMS has launched a new website designed to better serve the community and its members. The website will formally be presented at the Board of  Commissioners Meeting on June 9 at 5:30 p.m. at the Freeland station.

“We wanted to make our website faster, easier to navigate, mobile device compatible, and user-friendly, ” said Chief H.L. ‘Rusty’ Palmer.  “As a community service provider, it’s important for us to make information regarding services, volunteer opportunities and incident reports easy to access.”

The streamlined navigation includes a live Twitter feed and video section in the sidebar, as well as a new blog. Updating the content will be an ongoing process. The department actively uses social media for announcements on Facebook and Twitter. Integrated throughout the new site is the new tag line: Integrity, Service, Trust.

Website work was done by Maureen Denny of MoxieCreek, a Whidbey Island business.   Department volunteer Jon Gabelein currently serves as Public Information Officer. Local consultant and writer Sherrye Wyatt also assists with communications efforts.

South Whidbey Fire/EMS has provided fire suppression, emergency medical service, marine, and rope rescue to residents and visitors since 1950.  Volunteers and staff responded to 2,391 calls in 2015, setting another record year for emergency service.