Chilton County added 12 new emergency responders to its ranks last Monday.

By completing a 40-hour course, these volunteers are now certified by the Chilton County Emergency Management Agency and Department of Homeland Security in the Department of Transportation and First Responder training.

The Department of Homeland Security, through the Governor’s Office of Faith Based and Community Affairs, sponsored the classes.

By completing the course, these individuals will become part of the volunteer emergency medical unit in Chilton County.

“The spirit of the volunteer is not dead in Chilton County,” said EMA Director Bill Collum. “It’s refreshing to see people who work regular jobs during the day … and yet they will take time at night to attend classes and study in order that they might be able to help others. I congratulate these men and women on a job well done and am proud to have each one of them working in our county.”

Chilton County EMS needs people who are trained to respond to medical emergencies.

If you are interested in First Responder training or volunteering, please contact the EMA at 755-0900 or drop by their office within Clanton City Hall.