Emergency services in Toutle have just got a major upgrade; Cowlitz Fire District #3 has hired its first full-time paramedic.

Medic Brett Schaffer is taking up the role. Previously, the department had operated on an all-relief medic system. In the post, the department said, “While our dedicated relief staff has served us incredibly well, adding a permanent full-time paramedic to our ranks marks a massive step forward in our community’s safety.”