IOWA COLONY, TEXAS — Brazoria County Emergency Services District No. 3 (BCESD3), in partnership with the Iowa Colony Volunteer Fire Department (ICVFD), has launched a First Responder Organization (FRO) Program designed to strengthen emergency medical response and enhance the care available to residents of Iowa Colony and surrounding communities.

The program, operating under the leadership of BCESD3 Medical Director Dr. Scott Wiesenborn and EMS Chief Tim Welch, expands the ability of trained Iowa Colony firefighters to provide critical medical assistance during the first minutes of an emergency.

By providing participating firefighters with additional medical training, clinical oversight, established protocols, and coordination with BCESD3 EMS, the FRO Program allows qualified ICVFD personnel to begin patient assessment and appropriate medical interventions before an ambulance arrives.

What is a First Responder Organization?

A First Responder Organization, or FRO, is a structured program that allows trained fire department personnel to begin basic emergency medical care prior to the arrival of an ambulance.

Under the oversight of BCESD3’s Medical Director, participating Iowa Colony firefighters receive training, operate under established medical protocols, and work closely with BCESD3 EMS personnel. This coordinated approach is designed to provide patients with timely care during the critical first minutes of a medical emergency.

“Every minute matters during a medical emergency,” said Dr. Scott Wiesenborn, BCESD3 Medical Director. “The First Responder Organization Program creates a more integrated approach to emergency response by ensuring that highly trained personnel can begin patient assessment and care as quickly as possible. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to providing the highest level of service to our communities.”

BCESD3 EMS Chief Tim Welch said the program further strengthens the working relationship between EMS and the Iowa Colony Volunteer Fire Department.

“This program provides another opportunity for EMS and our fire service partners to work together to improve patient care,” Welch said. “By giving trained Iowa Colony firefighters the resources, medical oversight, and protocols they need to begin care before an ambulance arrives, we can provide a more coordinated response from the moment help reaches the patient. Our goal is always to deliver the best possible service to the residents we serve.”

For the Iowa Colony Volunteer Fire Department, participation in the program represents an additional investment in the department’s ability to respond to the changing needs of a rapidly growing community.

Iowa Colony Volunteer Fire Department Chief Walters praised the partnership and the additional capabilities it provides his firefighters.

“Our firefighters are committed to doing everything we can to serve the residents of Iowa Colony. Participating in the First Responder Organization Program gives our personnel additional training and resources to provide meaningful care during those critical minutes before an ambulance arrives. We appreciate the partnership with BCESD3 and the opportunity to continue expanding the level of service we provide our community.”

BCESD3 Executive Director Jeff Braun said the partnership reflects the Board of Commissioners’ commitment to investing in programs and resources that improve emergency services throughout the District.

“The Board of Commissioners has consistently demonstrated its commitment to providing the best possible emergency care to the communities we serve,” Braun said. “Our partnership with the Iowa Colony Volunteer Fire Department through the First Responder Organization Program is another example of that commitment in action. By investing in training, strengthening coordination between fire and EMS, and giving qualified first responders additional tools to care for patients, we are building a stronger and more effective emergency response system.”

Braun added that partnerships such as this become increasingly important as communities within BCESD3 continue to experience significant growth.

The FRO Program also provides opportunities for continued joint training and coordination between Iowa Colony firefighters and BCESD3 EMS personnel, helping ensure responders are prepared to work together seamlessly when emergencies occur.

The partnership represents a shared commitment by BCESD3 and the Iowa Colony Volunteer Fire Department to prepare for the future while continuing to provide residents with responsive, coordinated, and high-quality emergency services.

About Brazoria County Emergency Services District No. 3

Brazoria County Emergency Services District No. 3 (BCESD3) provides funding and support for fire protection and emergency medical services to communities within its service area in northern Brazoria County. Working in partnership with local fire and EMS departments, the District is committed to strengthening emergency response capabilities, supporting first responders, and ensuring the communities it serves have access to high-quality emergency services. BCESD3 is governed by a five-member Board of Commissioners and is dedicated to responsible stewardship, strong community partnerships, and meeting the evolving public safety needs of a growing region.