Paramedic Recognized for Service to Barrow County

As National Emergency Services week continues (May 19-25), Barrow County Fire and Emergency Services is honoring long-time paramedic Lt. Ernest Weant.

The 16-year veteran of the department was first motivated to become a paramedic after pulling several children out of a burning car that had been involved in an accident. As he watched the paramedics work on the children, he decided he wanted to pursue a career in emergency medical services.

“Along with being the outdoors type of guy I am and the compassion I have for people in general being a paramedic was the perfect fit for me,” Weant said in a released statement. “My passion for EMS stems from wanting to help people, not only in medical emergencies but also emotional emergencies. Helping people with resources and educating them to better themselves and their health.”

Weant, who has been a paramedic for a total of 19 years, is a certified instructor in basic and advanced life support, advanced burn life support and certified emergency management. He also holds an associate's degree in fire science technology.

“Lieutenant Weant is one part of the large team that provides emergency medical services here in Barrow County,” commented Chief Dennis Merrifield. “We all work together, as one team, to meet the mission of saving lives. It is our honor and privilege to serve the citizens of Barrow County in the field of EMS.”