VBFD "P" and "R" suffix

[LeSueurC]

I've been listening to VB more and noticed some Engines have a P or R after the number, some rescues do too. What does the P and R stand for? Is it to symbolize the Engine or Rescue has a paramedic?

 

[KJ4BGI]

The P suffix means there is a Paramedic riding the engine or ladder. The R suffix means that there is nationally registered Paramedic on the unit.

 

[KJ4BGI]

The P suffix means that there is a paramedic on the engine or ladder. The R suffix means that there is a nationally registered paramedic on the unit.

 

[kc4jgc]

I guess I haven't listened that close. I haven't heard that before; how long have they been in use? I only remember J-units (4 wheel drive) on VBPD.

 

[LeSueurC]

I didn't listen to VB that often, but whenever I was in VB I would hear the occasional Engine 2P or 1620R. I've never heard the VBPD "R" unit, unless they've changed because the ATV units just use "ATV 2"

 

[kc4jgc]

Interesting. I could see the designation on an FD unit. As for rescue, wouldn't it be assumed there's a paramedic in the unit when it leaves the station on a call? I haven't heard that designation on PD units either. I don't know whether or not the "J" designation in still in use; it does/did indicate a four wheel drive (a pickup truck) unit that can be driven off road such as the beach.

 

[LeSueurC]

I would think most of the Rescues have EMT Basics- EMT Intermediate rather than a paramedic.

 

[Webodisk]

VBFD "P" and "R" suffix

R is a regular unit for EMS not used on fire units only P for paramedic, J for Pd is jeep pr 4wd, the reason for R was there was a cad issue with 900 units

 

[BoxAlarm187]

I think there was some confusion in the thread - I don't see where anyone said that the P or R was being used on the PD side?

Also, since all Virginia paramedics are nationally registered, I don't follow why the City would need separate designations. Is that a TEMS thing?

 

[LeSueurC]

I think there was some confusion in the thread - I don't see where anyone said that the P or R was being used on the PD side?

Also, since all Virginia paramedics are nationally registered, I don't follow why the City would need separate designations. Is that a TEMS thing?

I guess with VA Beach having mostly volunteer EMS, they needed a way to distinguish which units had a paramedic on board and which ones didn't, same way with Fire although they aren't Volunteer they too need a way to distinguish which Engines, Ladders, and Heavy Rescues have paramedics on board.

 

[BoxAlarm187]

I guess with VA Beach having mostly volunteer EMS, they needed a way to distinguish which units had a paramedic on board and which ones didn't, same way with Fire although they aren't Volunteer they too need a way to distinguish which Engines, Ladders, and Heavy Rescues have paramedics on board.

I get that, we do something similar at work, but why not use the same thing with both fire and EMS? Just curious...

 

[LeSueurC]

I think it has to do with the fact that EMS and Fire are separate agencies, and because EMS is Volunteer

 

[Ghstwolf62]

Out here they just go in service with their status. Seems like it would be simpler to me.

Example.

Rescue 84 en route, four members, enhanced status.

 

[LeSueurC]

Here in Hampton Roads everything is complicated,.

 

[Ghstwolf62]

LOL

 

[mikext]

From a co-worker who is associated with VBEMS
R is a Basic Life Support unit
S is a EMT Enhanced unit lowest level of Advanced Life Support
P is a Paramedic level staffed unit for both EMS and Fire

 

[kc4jgc]

Thanks for the clarification, Mike!