Santa Clara County Emergency Medical Services

Richard Alameda has spent more than 40 years of distinguished public safety service to the County of Santa Clara and the City of Mountain View, beginning his career as a probationary firefighter with the City of Mountain View, rising through the ranks to Deputy Fire Chief, and ultimately retiring as Battalion Chief in 2016. From 2008 through 2026, Richard further supported the EMS Agency on a part-time basis, contributing to numerous high-profile projects and emergency preparedness initiatives. Richard has been recognized for his unwavering dedication and deep commitment to those he served, consistently advancing emergency response systems and making substantial contributions to strengthening local and regional preparedness, training, and public safety. He has been formally recognized for his leadership, professionalism, and enduring service to the community. This evening, the Board of Supervisors recognized Richard for his contributions to the County and beyond. We hope you enjoy your well-deserved retirement, Rich!

June is National Gun Violence Awareness Month, and as such, Valley Health System partnered with Santa Clara County EMS Agency to increase awareness of the “Wear Orange” Campaign. From June 4-6, 2026, the “Wear Orange” campaign honors survivors of gun violence and aims to build community with those working to end gun violence. SaferTogether

To conclude EMS Week 2026, we recognize emergency medical services personnel who have died in the line-of-duty and to recognize the ultimate sacrifice they made for their communities. We thank them for their service to EMS and for bringing comfort and lifesaving care to their patients. They leave us with the proud memory of their commitment and dedication to EMS. Our hearts are grateful to you for all you have given.

Fridays theme of EMS Week 2026 is “EMS Recognition Day.” This day is dedicated to honoring local EMS heroes, paramedics, EMTs, and dispatchers, as well as celebrating the patients whose lives have been saved by the EMS system. While attending a conference, EMS Agency Staff Michael Cabano, Dustin Gonzalez, John Sampson, and Nik Bechler saved a man barely breathing after a suspected opioid overdose.
The person made a full recovery due to the swift actions and rapid administration of Narcan. They collectively used their training, resources, and compassion even while off the clock! 👏 🥹 They will be awarded the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Award this summer in Napa Valley. We are so proud of you!

This week, the Santa Clara County EMS Agency recognizes National EMS Week, a national celebration that brings together local communities and medical personnel to honor the dedication of those who provide the day-to-day lifesaving services on the front lines of medicine. Don’t forget to thank a First Responder, EMT, Paramedic today!

The Santa Clara County EMS Agency would like to take a moment to celebrate National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, April 12-18, 2026, and acknowledge the amazing telecommunicators who serve Santa Clara County! This week, sponsored by the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) International and celebrated annually, honors the thousands of individuals who respond to emergency calls, dispatch emergency professionals and equipment, and render life-saving assistance to the world’s citizens. Thank you for all you do!

March 19, 2026 - Representatives from Region II, IV and V from various EMS, Fire, Public Health, LEMSA, MHOAC, RDMHS, EMSA, and CDPH participated in the California Statewide Patient Movement Plan TTX at ALCO EMS Agency. This event prepares the Region for large-scale special events and disaster response. With FIFA around the corner, this is just one of the many ways the Santa Clara County EMS Agency maximizes its preparedness efforts to keep Santa Clara County safe. Representatives from Santa Clara County: EMS Director, Nick Clay; Assistant Director, Michael Cabano; EMS Specialist, David Sullivan; PH Preparedness, Yvette Barajas; and Royal Ambulance Director of Operations, Samantha Barakat.

The EMS Administrators’ Association of California (EMSAAC) cordially invites California’s EMS leaders and professionals to attend the upcoming EMSAAC Annual Conference 2026 at a new location, the Hilton LA in Universal City!!! The conference includes lectures, panel discussions, and opportunities to network with current leaders and innovators in EMS as well as preview new and upcoming equipment, products and services. Register at www.EMSAAC.org today!