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Fort Bend County paramedics to receive ballistic vests

Last month, Houston firefighters called for ballistic vests. This week, Fort Bend County EMTs are being issued life-saving protection.

FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas - First responders wearing protective vests is a trend picking up pace across the nation.

Last month, Houston firefighters called for ballistic vests. This week, Fort Bend County EMTs are being issued life-saving protection.

Emergency calls are chances for paramedics to save lives, but they can also be unpredictable.

"We got called out. A husband beat his wife pretty badly,” said Alejandra Hernandez, Fort Bend County paramedic.

The patient told police her husband left the house.

"But he did have a gun on him,” Hernandez said.

While caring for the woman, her husband returned with a gun.

"Just kind of scary, you know?" Hernandez said.

Police handled the situation. It opened Hernandez’s eyes to a safety concern Fort Bend EMS administrators have been watching closely.

"Adding a level of protective equipment to our staff was essential,” said Fort Bend County EMS Chief Graig Temple.

Temple says they’ve purchased 32 ballistic vests and helmets, spending about $28,000 – enough to equip every working crew.

"The cost of not supplying it would be very severe if one of our providers should be injured on a call,” Temple said.

For calls like shootings, domestic violence or any time paramedics like Hernandez feel unsafe, the vest and helmet are right behind their seat.

"I think it just gives you piece of mind so you can focus on your job and taking care of the patient,” Hernandez said.

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