No Dating Rule Could Be Relaxed For Putnam EMS Department

To address a shortage of EMS workers, Putnam County’s Commission will consider relaxing a rule against dating among EMS employees.

EMS Director Tommy Copeland said the current no dating rule prevents married couples or people dating from accepting employment as paramedics within the county.

“This is not something that I’m considering doing light or asking the commission to do lightly,” Copeland said. “It’s something I know there are some potential problems with, but I’m looking at a matter of public safety as being able to fill more shifts and I’m looking to get more people in here.”

Copeland said over the last couple months the department had more than 30 shifts they couldn’t cover.

He also said he believes he could fill at least five positions if the rule is relaxed for the EMS Department.

The county commission will consider the issue during their regular scheduled meeting at 6 p.m Monday, Sept. 18.