After the resignation of the entire Burns Flat EMS crew in May, town officials and Washita County Commissioners have been working toward a solution for emergency care for the Burns Flat EMS District, which includes Sentinel, Dill City, Burns Flat, Foss, and the surrounding rural areas.
This week, on behalf of the Board of County Commissioners, Washita County Clerk Kristen Dowell issued the following statement: “Beginning Wednesday, July 15, 2026, Sinor Emergency Medical Services will be housed in Burns Flat and service will be available to the Burns Flat EMS Service District, out of this location, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. During Monday morning’s meeting, the Board of County Commissioners approved using the county sales tax, earmarked for the Burns Flat Ambulance service, to pay for emergency medical services following approval from the District Attorney and the approval of a contract between the Town of Burns Flat and Sinor Emergency Medical Services. The contract, in the amount of $149,185.26, will run through December 31, 2026.
The county sales tax received for the Burns Flat Ambulance service has been used since 2015 by ambulance personnel to pay for an ambulance truck, equipment, medical supplies, tuition for training, repairs, and housing of contract medics. Following the payment of the contract with Sinor, $73,778.44 will remain in the account with the county for the Burns Flat Ambulance service. This account will continue to receive sales tax funds, as approved by the voters on January 9, 2024, and will be used to fund emergency medical services beyond December 31, 2026, if needed. If you have any questions regarding the county sales tax, please do not hesitate to contact your county officials.”