AMR computers and D.C. fire computers do not speak to one another, so patient information cannot be transferred electronically. As a result, D.C. firefighters and EMS personnel must remain on a scene and transfer information by hand on paper forms.

The city is aware of the problem and hopes to have a software update to fix the problem within eight to 10 weeks, a department spokesman told News4.

In the meantime, ambulance crews continue filling out paper reports, and some have told News4 that is slowing down service.

Richland County community development director Valeria Jackson says that's why they decided to step in.

"I think it's important when all is said and done that the community's needs are being met," she said.

They started by giving a new truck to a Hopkins station using grant money. All the engines there were going on 20 years old.

"That information always stuck with our department," Jackson said. "And when we had the ability to fund a dire truck we thought, what better use of the funds?"

And they're not stopping there. The county will use general fund money to buy 10 more pumpers, 4 rescue trucks, 1 ladder and 4 tankers.