In January 2010, the Henry County Board of Supervisors directed the Department of Public Safety to develop an emergency medical services plan that preserves volunteer rescue squads as an essential part of the EMS system, utilizes paid personnel or contracted services to cover service gaps, and operates in a way that does not expect new revenue but redirects current revenue and utilizes revenue options.

Since being issued this directive, Henry County Public Safety staff worked diligently and listened closely to the concerns of the volunteers that graciously serve Henry County.  They have carefully evaluated numerous options available including contracting with private vendors, hiring county supplemental staff, and contracting with the Martinsville Fire Department.