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• In the 1960’s Beatty’s Funeral Chapel operated the ambulance service. At this time patients were treated in a Buick station wagon which also served as a funeral car. The patients received little or no care, merely being transported without medical care.
   

• Late 1960’s – Ambulance operation was transferred from the Beatty’s Funeral Chapel to the Sheriff’s Department.
   

• Early 1970’s – A single bay building was built behind the County Courthouse to accomodate one response vehicle. A second ambulance remained outside, exposed to the elements, being used when demand dictated. In the winter months a portable heater was placed inside the vehicle to keep it warm. Jail staff were responsible for starting the vehicle and removing the heater in preparation for an emergency response.
   

• 1985 – Ambulance Director Jerry Brock solicited donations from members of the community to build 3 additional ambulances bays onto the existing ambulance building, providing shelter for 3 ambulances and a rescue truck.

• 1993 – The Ambulance Service separated from the Sheriff’s Department, becoming an independent agency under the direction of the Gem County Commissioners.
   

• 2003 – The construction of the new jail facilitated the need to relocate the ambulance operation. A vacant Circle K building was purchased near the courthouse to serve as its new location.
   

• 2004 – A large addition and complete renovation of the building was completed providing a 5-bay garage, training room, and living quarters for on duty ambulance crews.

Gem County takes pride in offering “Advanced Level Care”.

Gem County is served by E-911, dispatched from the Gem County Sheriff’s department dispatch center.