Welcome to Ozark
Director of Public Safety/EMS
Chief Jason Maertens
j.maertens@ozarkal.gov 334-445-5000
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Administrative Assistant to the
Director of Public Safety/EMS Chief
Stephanie Wendle
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Jason Maertens currently serves as the Director of Public Safety, Fire Chief, and Chief of EMS for the City of Ozark, bringing 25 years of dedicated fire service experience to the role. A graduate of recruit school in Ozark, Chief Maertens quickly realized his passion for the fire service and his desire to serve the Ozark community, setting the foundation for a lifelong career.
Throughout his career, Chief Maertens has progressed through the ranks, serving in several leadership roles. These roles include Firefighter Paramedic, Driver/Engineer, Lieutenant, Captain, and Operations Chief before being appointed Fire Chief, Chief of EMS, and most recently, Director of Public Safety. As a seasoned Fire Medic, he oversaw the EMS division in his role as Operations Chief prior to EMS branching out into its own division in 2023 with the opening of a dedicated station. Shortly after the division’s relocation, he was appointed Chief of EMS. Chief Maertens is widely respected for his strong work ethic, loyalty, and commitment to both the citizens of Ozark and the personnel he serves alongside. He frequently credits the department’s success to its members and their willingness to always step up in service to the Ozark Department of Public Safety.
384 Parker Drive, Ozark, Alabama
Administrative Services
The Administrative Services Section plays a critical role in supporting the allocation of resources and the operational focus of the City of Ozark Emergency Medical Services Division. This section is responsible for coordinating administrative functions that support field operations, ensure regulatory compliance, and promote efficient service delivery. Through data management, fiscal oversight, and personnel support, Administrative Services helps ensure that the EMS Division meets the community's needs while maintaining high standards of patient care and organizational accountability.
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The Administrative Services Section is comprised of the following functional areas: Budgeting and Purchasing, License and Credential Compliance, Payroll, Human Resources and Recruitment, Training and Continuing Education, Quality Improvement and Data Analysis, Grant Administration, Fleet and Equipment Coordination, and Inspections and Compliance.
The Administrative Division of the City of Ozark EMS Division is responsible for processing all documentation completed by field personnel. This includes data entry and records management for patient care reports, incident and exposure reports, vehicle collision documentation, and other required administrative records. The division also serves as a primary point of contact for hospitals, insurance providers, and regulatory agencies, handling inquiries related to EMS responses, billing support documentation, and claims associated with EMS-generated reports.
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Training Division
The EMS Division of the City of Ozark is responsible for ensuring all personnel receive comprehensive, ongoing emergency medical training to meet the demands of modern emergency medical services. The division oversees initial and continuing EMS education, providing structured instruction that establishes and maintains a strong foundation in patient care, emergency medical response, and organizational procedures. Training is conducted in accordance with local, state, and national standards to promote patient safety, operational readiness, and professional development.
The EMS Division utilizes dedicated training facilities and equipment to support hands-on, scenario-based instruction. These resources allow personnel to train in realistic environments that enhance skills in patient assessment, treatment, equipment utilization, and coordination with other emergency response partners. Through a combination of classroom instruction, practical exercises, and continuing education, the EMS Division plays a vital role in preparing personnel to safely, effectively, and professionally provide emergency medical services to the City of Ozark.
Department Operations
The Ozark EMS Division responds to approximately 5,800 calls annually, providing rapid, high-quality emergency medical care to the community. The division is staffed by 22 EMS professionals, including EMTs, Advanced EMTs, and Paramedics.
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The EMS Division operates three ambulances staffed and in service 24/7, ensuring continuous coverage throughout the city. Crews deliver rapid response to medical emergencies and also provide non-emergency medical transportation services when needed.
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Through strategic deployment and round-the-clock staffing, the EMS Division ensures reliable, timely medical care for residents, businesses, and visitors at all times.
Recruitment and Opportunities
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The Ozark Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Division is a growing organization currently staffed by 22 dedicated emergency medical professionals committed to providing high-quality prehospital emergency care to the community with professionalism and integrity. Individuals interested in pursuing a career with Ozark EMS must meet established qualifications and demonstrate the physical ability, clinical skills, sound judgment, and commitment required for emergency medical services.
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Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, possess a high school diploma or GED, and hold or be eligible to obtain Alabama EMT or Paramedic licensure. Candidates must maintain a clean driving record and criminal background and be capable of performing essential EMS job functions, including patient assessment, emergency medical treatment, safe operation of emergency response vehicles, proper use of medical equipment, and effective communication with patients, families, and healthcare partners. A comprehensive pre-employment physical examination and screening process is required.
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Applications may be obtained in person at the Ozark Municipal Complex, 275 N. Union Avenue, Ozark, Alabama, Monday through Thursday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., or submitted online through the City of Ozark website. (A copy of the application can be found here)
Department Mission and Values
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Mission:
It is the mission of the Ozark Emergency Medical Services to provide professional, compassionate, and timely pre-hospital emergency medical care to all people. We are committed to preserving life, reducing injury and illness, and improving patient outcomes through high-quality medical response, prevention, preparedness, and public education. Our service is grounded in clinical excellence, integrity, and respect for the community we serve.
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Values:
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Community-Centered Care:
We are dedicated to serving the citizens of Ozark with compassion and professionalism. By building strong relationships with the community, we foster trust, encourage collaboration, and promote health, safety, and preparedness. -
Ethical Behavior and Accountability:
We perform our duties with the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and responsibility. We are accountable for our clinical decisions, actions, and patient care, always prioritizing patient safety and well-being. -
Trustworthiness:
Honesty, transparency, and reliability guide every aspect of our service. We adhere to established medical standards, protocols, and ethical guidelines to ensure the public’s trust and confidence. -
Respect for All People:
We honor the dignity, rights, and individuality of every patient and community member. Our care is delivered with fairness, empathy, cultural sensitivity, and respect for diversity in all its forms. -
Objectivity and Professional Judgment:
We approach every medical emergency with impartiality, sound clinical judgment, and adherence to evidence-based practices. We are committed to equitable care, protecting patient rights, and upholding the highest standards of the EMS profession.
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Department Strategies and Objectives
To develop a community-centered Emergency Medical Services organization dedicated to the following strategies and objectives:
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1. Enhancing Community Trust and Support:
To strengthen the community’s trust, support, and engagement through the delivery of timely, professional, and compassionate emergency medical care. We prioritize transparency, honesty, and open communication in all interactions, demonstrating our commitment to the health, safety, and well-being of our citizens. This includes fair and equitable treatment of all individuals during patient care, public education initiatives, and community outreach programs focused on health awareness and emergency preparedness.
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2. Enhancing Our Ability to Achieve Our Mission:
To continually evaluate and improve our processes, protocols, and capabilities to deliver high-quality emergency medical services. By leveraging evidence-based practices, modern medical equipment, and ongoing education and training, we aim to preserve life, reduce suffering, and enhance the overall quality of life for the citizens and visitors of Ozark.
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3. Enhancing Employee Trust and Support:
To foster a professional, ethical, and supportive workplace that promotes teamwork, accountability, high performance, and personal growth. We are committed to maintaining a culture that values every EMS professional, supports mental and physical well-being, and recognizes the dedication required to provide exceptional patient care.
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4. Enhancing Provider Safety:
To maintain and enhance a safe working environment that protects our EMS personnel while delivering effective patient care. Through the use of modern medical and safety equipment, comprehensive training, and strict adherence to safety and operational protocols, we strive to reduce risk and ensure personnel are prepared to respond safely to all types of medical emergencies.
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5. Enhancing Collaboration with Community Partners:
To build and sustain strong working relationships with local government, healthcare systems, hospitals, law enforcement, fire services, and other public safety partners. Through coordination, information sharing, and integrated response planning, we enhance patient outcomes and strengthen the overall resilience of the Ozark community.
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6. Enhancing Medical Readiness, Prevention, and Community Health:
To provide efficient and effective emergency medical services through proactive community education, injury and illness prevention initiatives, risk reduction programs, and continuous quality improvement. By focusing on public health awareness, early intervention, and emergency response readiness, we aim to improve patient outcomes and reduce preventable emergencies within our community.
EMS Safety Tips
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1. Stay Calm and Clear
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Take a deep breath and try to stay calm in an emergency.
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Speak clearly and give concise information to the 911 dispatcher.
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Follow all instructions given by emergency responders.
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2. Know Your Location
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Be aware of your address, nearest intersection, or landmarks.
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This helps EMS arrive quickly without delays.
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3. Keep Pathways Clear
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Ensure doors, hallways, and entrances are free of obstacles for EMS access.
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Move pets and children to a safe area away from the patient.
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4. Avoid Hazards
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Do not attempt to move someone if it could put you or them at risk.
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Stay away from fire, electrical hazards, chemical spills, or traffic until EMS says it’s safe.
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5. Prepare Information
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Be ready to provide medical history, medications, allergies, and symptoms.
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Have identification and insurance information accessible if possible.
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6. Assist, Don’t Interfere
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Only perform first aid if trained and confident; otherwise, follow EMS instructions.
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Avoid crowding the scene; let responders do their work efficiently.
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7. Respect Safety Guidelines
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Follow any evacuation or safety instructions from EMS or authorities.
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Do not follow the ambulance or try to take shortcuts to the hospital.
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8. Practice Safety at Home
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Keep a first aid kit and fire extinguisher handy.
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Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
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Educate family members on calling 911 and basic first aid.