Bethel Park officials honor police, EMS

Bethel Park first responders were recognized for their services and in observance of National EMS and Police weeks.

National Police Week runs May 9-15, with Friday being National Peace Officers Memorial Day.

National EMS Week is May 16-22.

Municipal Manager Laurence Christian read proclamations for both the police department and Tri-Community South EMS on behalf of Mayor Jack Allen, who was unable to attend Monday night’s meeting.

“You can’t say enough about them,” Christian said of the first responders. “They are there 24/7 taking care of our residents. Tri-Community South is an amazing organization. They serve Bethel Park, South Park and Upper St. Clair. They do a fantastic job (and) are under appreciated. They are the lifeblood transporting our residents when they are called.

“Our police, I’ll stand behind them 100% … They do a great job protecting and serving our residents. They are the thin blue line that keeps our residents safe.”

Chief Timothy O’Connor accepted the proclamation on behalf of Bethel Park police. The department has about 35 officers.

He thanked the mayor for the recognition, and announced a wreath ceremony is planned for 9 a.m. Friday at the memorial outside the municipal building.

EMS supervisor John Bower, director Nora Helfrich and EMT Rick Polano accepted the proclamation on behalf of Tri-Community South EMS.

Bower said the pandemic gave people a glimpse into the many functions of EMS workers.

Staffers spent hours with cardiac arrest victims, fed people’s dogs when they were away and provided numerous other services. The department responds to about 7,000 calls a year.

“We want people to know that we’re more than lights, sirens and ambulance rides,” Bower said. “We do a lot for the community, and we’re proud of our staff. They’re in a stressful environment. They’re exposed to covid all the time and are away from their families. We appreciate whatever they do for the communities.”