CHARLESTON COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD) – A dedicated ambulance in two Charleston County beach communities will provide quick response to medical emergencies during the summer months. Charleston County EMS will begin staffing a weekend ambulance to help manage medical issues that arise on Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island, especially as the islands see an increase in visitors on warm and sunny days. “It’s a huge collaboration between us and the Isle of Palms and Sullivan's Island, and all beach areas really, to make sure that Charleston County EMS is helping the community by providing coverage and care for any medical emergencies that happen out there,” said Kim Winn, the Deputy Chief of Operations for Charleston County Emergency Medical Services. The new service comes amid a few expansions for Charleston County EMS in recent years. David Abrams, the department’s chief, said their most recent expansion happened in 2021, allowing them to fill dozens of new positions that were granted by Charleston County Council. “So, we’ve been using those resources to better serve the community, and that’s reflective in one of our new programs which is to staff a weekend ambulance for Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island,” he said. Charleston County EMS is looking to further expand their programs in the future. They have previously added anchor units on the islands and in rural areas and assigned a paramedic staff at the airport. “We’re doing a lot of cool and innovative things that can better help serve our community with the resources we've been given, and we’re very fortunate to have a supportive community and supportive elected officials who continuously drive behind the public safety and know that’s important for our community safety and wellbeing,” said Abrams. Abrams reminds beach visitors to stay hydrated as the weather warms and reduce heavy activity, like running or outdoor exercise, during the heating of the day. “Wait for the evenings or early mornings for those activities. Stay hydrated, listen to your body. Stop exercising if you feel like you are getting dizzy,” he said. The program begins this weekend and will be available on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday for now.