The other program within the CCEMS Special Operations unit is the CCEMS Medics on Bikes. When it first started about five years ago, this was a relatively new program throughout the country, and CCEMS was the only volunteer service to provide the peddle-powered service in the immediate area.

The concept of putting trained paramedics on bicycles is to be on the scene quicker at outdoor public events to enable immediate patient care in crowd situations where an ambulance might be delayed.

As usual, the innovation of CCEMS was rewarded by local businesses who “sponsored” the purchase of bikes and equipment. The medics ride all-terrain bikes equipped with both basic and advanced life support equipment, which are capable of rendering critical patient care. The team members are in constant communication with both the event staff and the CCEMS Comm Center via radio communication.

Today, the team consists of 23 members -- which makes us one of the largest such teams in the country! Since it was established, the Bike Medics have provided their special EMS services during the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Galveston Mardi Gras, the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, the 104 KRBE Twilite Fun Run, many PGA golf tournaments, and the Shell Houston Open.

Two years ago, the Bike Medics were instrumental in saving a man’s life when he collapsed on the back fairway at Shell’s tournament at the Woodlands. Even though the course was crowded with spectators, the Bike Medic took only seconds to arrive on the scene and provide the necessary critical care.

The Bike Medics also provide a valuable community service by training youngsters about Bike Safety. For two years, CCEMS held a Father’s Day Bike Safety event at Willowbrook Mall, co-sponsored by local law enforcement and insurance company representatives, where over 200 kids and their parents learned the fundamentals of bike safety.

The Bike Medic team members go through rigorous training and participate in long distance charity rides, as well. Members must pass a written test, be in good standing with CCEMS, and attend a special bike safety class.

Terry Amaro, 2/00; Jason Gander, 2/00; Chris Charron, 2/96; Brenna Graham, 7/98; Barbara Chebret, 4/96; Art Hood, 2/96; Mike Downs, 8/99; Greg Hoffman,8/99;Jason Edwards, 8/98; Juan Garcia, 4/00; David Fornet, 8/99; Jonas Konan, 2/96; Greg Marwill, 4/97; Stacy McDonald, 1/00; Lee Packard, 2/96; Tammy Parker, 2/96; Jeff Taylor, 2/96; Kevin Traynor, 4/00; Christy Traynor, 2/96; Ben Rivaux, 2/00; Peter Van Wijk, 3/98; Forest Tooley, 11/99; and Eric Rasch, 9/00.