Local emergency medical services helping in North Carolina

STORY: Tropical Storm Florence live updates: Rescues, flooding, power outages continue

Local first responder teams went toward Hurricane Florence this week. As they brave the elements they’re helping people in medical emergencies during the storm.

"Most of the devastation has been from trees down on homes and some churches," said Lt. Billy Futch, of Clay County Fire and Rescue.

Futch was flanked by first responder personnel from St. Johns and Flagler counties. They’re calling the effort Task Force 301.

They sent Action News Jax images of building damage, rain, wind and flooding. Some of these men were deployed to hurricanes Andrew and Katrina. Now they’re seeing the aftermath of Florence.

"I think, just the amount of flooding and the amount of water, that has been the biggest surprise," said Futch.

PHOTOS: Tropical Storm Florence soaks Carolinas

While dealing with localized flooding and downed trees, they’re responding to emergency medical service calls. Most are medical emergencies, as many people can't get to the hospital.

"A lot of people have asked us, you know when this might end, and right now we have no idea. We're going to be here until the need for us is not requested," Futch said.

They’re honored to be able to assist in a situation they’re all too familiar with. They're returning the favor. Futch says Shallotte area EMS came to Northeast Florida after Irma and Matthew.

"It's time for us to come up and help them! They were in our area last year," he said.

Many in the area are still without power. Futch says it may be about a week before they return home.

STORY: Florence crawling through South Carolina well north of Jacksonville

Florence dumping feet of rain on coastal communities Florence dumping feet of rain on coastal communities

Cox Media Group