
The Margate ALS team: Lt. Charles Gandia, firefighter Sierra Leon-Jarjoura, firefighter Mike Whitt, and Lt. Yomy Batista. {David Volz}
The Margate Advance Life Support (ALS) Team has achieved state-level recognition.
On June 11, a four-person team earned first place at the First There, First Care competition at the Hollywood Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. They were among 30 ALS teams from all over Florida, some from much larger fire rescue departments.
According to Vito Labriola, Margate’s division chief, the team’s success is a testament to their unwavering dedication. The team was evaluated on assessment, treatment, diagnosis, and overall team performance.
“They are the best ALS people. They have put in countless hours of preparation and practice. The good thing is they bring their experience back to the department,” said Labriola.
The competition was part of a year-long series in which top ALS professionals are evaluated on their skills. The team ranked highest after the series won the Florida Cup.
“This is a very prestigious award, and now we have the most points,” said Labriola.
According to Lieutenant Charles Gandia, team captain, the competition occurred in a simulated haunted house. The teams had to deal with various mass casualty situations and stabilize patients.
“These were real-life situations, and we had to demonstrate how to handle various problems. We were successful because we work well as a team,” said Gandia.
Firefighter Sierra Leon-Jarjoura was proud of the team’s success. “I love being on this team. It is a challenge, and we have worked hard to prepare for the competitions,” she said.
Lieutenant Yomy Batista said, “The competitions are a challenge, but they are fun. I love being a part of it.”
The ALS team was recognized during the June 19 commission meeting.
Got News in Margate? Send it to Margate Talk. Don’t Miss Reading NW Broward County’s #1 News Sites: Coconut Creek Talk, Coral Springs Talk, Parkland Talk, and Tamarac Talk.
Author Profile
Latest entries
NewsMay 11, 2025Margate Begins Preparation for Annual Night Out Against Crime
NewsMay 9, 2025Ace Plaza Business Owners Wonder About Their Future in Margate
NewsMay 7, 2025Margate Fire Cadets Win First Place Overall in Regional Competition
NewsApril 27, 2025City of Margate Encourages Residents to Plant Trees