Emergency Medical Services was established as a de jure department of county government. Michael "Mike" Riordan, one of the first non-sworn paramedics, was named as its first (and only) chief. Riordan served in the capacity as head of department until JCEMS was combined with the EMS bureau of the Louisville Division of Fire as Louisville Metro EMS (LMEMS) in 2005. Riordan also served as Director of Operations of LMEMS for a short time thereafter until retiring. Notes JCEMS was an "all ALS service" for its entire existence meaning all ambulances fielded included at least one Paramedic on board. This type of staffing did not require the use of extra response vehicles specifically for advanced life support providers. The distinctive "slant-sided" profile of Jefferson County's ambulances was actually attributed to a design by JCEMS employees. This style of ambulance has been copied and used elsewhere around the United States. Proponents of the slanted sides claim they allow a lower center of gravity. Consequently, the vehicle displays less tendency to sway side-to-side and reduces roll-over potential. JCEMS's Disaster Response Team (DRT) performed all hazardous materials response inside Jefferson County (outside of the City of Louisville), a function carried over from previous police department responsibilities. DRT often responded outside of the county at the request of other agencies. References Jefferson County, Kentucky History of Louisville, Kentucky Emergency medical services in the United States 1973 establishments in Kentucky 2005 disestablishments in Kentucky Emergency services in Kentucky Medical and health organizations based in Kentucky Defunct organizations based in Kentucky