MEDINA, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – A tough decision could be looming for Medina Ambulance Service in the near future.

Due to a shortage of volunteers and others considering retirement, Medina Ambulance Service could soon decide to close its doors, leaving a large hole of service in North Dakota.

Tamara Rau serves on the Medina Ambulance Service.

Rau says it is a big commitment and they appreciate those who have helped, but they’re in desperate need for volunteers due to an aging roster of volunteers, EMTs and paramedics.

Steve English has served on the Medina Ambulance Service since 1996. He says a lot of those individuals who were on the service when he first began are still there.

English also works in the ER at the Jamestown Regional Medical Center. He says ambulance crews are the first point of contact and could be the difference between life and death.

Medina Ambulance has been dispatched between 60 to 75 times per year over the last four years, averaging five to six calls per month.

English says you don’t need to be from Medina or live in the community to volunteer or become a part-time first responder. He says they’re also willing to reimburse those who undergo training and courses to become certified.

If you’re interested, you’re encouraged visit Medina Ambulance on Facebook to call Renae Olson at 701-320-7567 or Tamara Rau at 701-799-5804.