Touch A Truck Happening Today In Downtown Summerville

Families in Chattooga County will have an opportunity to get up close to a variety of emergency, utility, and service vehicles today during the City of Summerville’s Touch A Truck event.

The sensory-friendly event is scheduled for 10 a.m. until noon today, Saturday, June 13, on East Washington Street in downtown Summerville. Organizers say the event is designed specifically with the special needs community in mind while remaining open and welcoming to everyone.

Children and families will have the chance to climb aboard, explore, and learn about police vehicles, fire trucks, ambulances, bucket trucks, tow trucks, tractors, and other specialized equipment used throughout the community.

Participants will also have an opportunity to meet local first responders, public safety officials, and community exhibitors, including representatives from the Summerville Police Department, Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, fire services, EMS, public works, and other local organizations.

Free Kona Ice will be available during the event, courtesy of United Community Bank and Southeast First National Bank.

Organizers say the event will feature a reduced-noise environment, hands-on exploration, and a supportive atmosphere designed to make the experience enjoyable for all ages and abilities.

AdventHealth Georgia Welcomes Therapy Dog In Training During National EMS Week

During National EMS Week, AdventHealth Georgia is welcoming a new source of comfort and encouragement for its Emergency Medical Services team.

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AdventHealth Redmond EMS Launches New Paramedic Training Program

AdventHealth Redmond EMS has launched a new paramedic training program aimed at strengthening emergency medical care across Northwest Georgia.

The program officially began April 8 and includes an inaugural class of 16 certified EMTs who are current AdventHealth team members. The 45-week program is designed to provide advanced clinical training, hands-on experience, and patient-centered emergency care.

Officials say the program will help expand career opportunities for EMS workers while improving response capabilities and patient outcomes in the region. Upon completion of the first cohort, the program will seek full accreditation.

“Launching this program allows our team members to expand their knowledge and skills so they can better serve our community,” said Nina Piatt, EMS captain and program director.

AdventHealth leaders say the initiative is part of a broader effort to invest in workforce development and build a stronger emergency response system by training paramedics locally.

The program is currently offered exclusively to AdventHealth EMTs at a reduced cost compared to traditional training programs.

Hospital officials say graduates will be equipped to deliver advanced, life-saving care and help ensure high-quality treatment for patients during critical emergencies.

Atrium Health Floyd Recognized For Commitment To Chattooga County

Atrium Health Floyd is being recognized for its long-standing commitment to the people of Chattooga County, where the healthcare system says it has proudly served residents for more than 80 years.

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Atrium Floyd EMS Honored As Region 1 Service Of The Year, Local Paramedic Recognized

Atrium Health Floyd EMS has been named Georgia Region 1 EMS Service of the Year, highlighting the organization’s dedication to emergency care across Northwest Georgia.

In addition to the agency honor, Chattooga County paramedic Greg Hawkins, known as “Hawk,” received the prestigious Dr. James Creel Pioneer Award, recognizing outstanding service and leadership in emergency medical services.

The awards were presented by the Northwest Georgia Regional Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council on March 26, 2026.

Local officials and colleagues are praising both Atrium Floyd EMS and Hawkins for their commitment to saving lives and serving their communities with excellence.

WZQZ News congratulates all involved on this well-deserved recognition.

Trion Lodge #160 Hosting First Responders Breakfast April 18

Trion Lodge #160 will host a First Responders Breakfast on Saturday, April 18, honoring the men and women who serve their communities in emergency response roles.

The breakfast will be held from 6:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. at the lodge, located at 75 Seventh Street in Trion.

First responders attending can enjoy a hearty breakfast menu that includes eggs, sausage, pancakes, biscuits and gravy.

Organizers say the event is a way to show appreciation and support for those who work in law enforcement, fire service, emergency medical services, and other first responder roles throughout the area.

All first responders are welcome to attend.

Summerville Police Investigating Possible Assault Following Medical Call

Summerville Police are investigating a possible assault after officers responded to a medical call earlier this week.

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Chattooga Coroner “Big Mac” McElhaney Urges Residents to Add Emergency Contacts to Georgia License Records

Chattooga County Coroner Jeremy “Big Mac” McElhaney is reminding residents about a free, simple way to help first responders reach loved ones faster in an emergency: add emergency contact information to your Georgia driver’s license or ID record.

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Atrium Health Floyd EMS Launches On-Scene Blood Transfusions for Floyd County; Chattooga County Expansion Planned for Early 2026

Atrium Health Floyd Emergency Medical Services is raising the bar for emergency response in Northwest Georgia by equipping ambulance teams with life-saving blood products and plasma to begin transfusions before patients reach the hospital—a move clinicians say can significantly improve survival in severe trauma and bleeding emergencies.

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GNTC Students Receive First Jerry Jones Memorial Scholarship for EMT Training

Two Georgia Northwestern Technical College students are being recognized with the first-ever Jerry Jones Memorial Scholarship, created to provide financial support for students enrolled in EMT or Advanced EMT certificate programs.

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