Defibrillators

In 2006, with a paramedic stationed in downtown Snohomish, emergency responders got to patients in six minutes, on average, documents show.

That's well below the national standard of eight minutes, Collins said.

Since January, it has taken up to 16 minutes for the best emergency medical care to reach people in Snohomish, Collins said.

Privacy laws prohibit officials from sharing whether the delays have meant death or irreparable harm.

Ultimately, people such as Dr.

Ihle say, the decision comes down to what neighbors want for the area.

"Either you provide as a community or none of us have it," he said.

Snohomish Fire District 4 EMS levy A $1.2 million emergency medical services levy is before voters in Snohomish County Fire District 4.

If approved, the levy will restore paramedic services to the area.

In January, paramedic services were canceled because of lack of money.

WHAT’S AT STAKE?

Without local paramedic service, people having a heart attack, stroke or other medical emergency may have to wait twice as long, about 14 minutes, for help to arrive.

If the levy fails, neighboring communities are under no obligation to send help.

HOW MUCH?

Approving the levy would add about $140 a year in taxes to a home valued at $400,000.

PARAMEDIC vs.

EMT: Paramedics receive about 10 times the training provided to emergency medical technicians.

Paramedics can give patients medicine, open airways using tubes ...

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