Some first responders got some second-class treatment in Tigard.

Someone stole medical kits from a Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue vehicle Friday night while it was parked in a Tigard parking lot. Inside the kits were a cardiac heart monitor, an IV kit, a device used to clear airways and other medical equipment.

Tualatin Valley firefighter paramedics rely on such equipment to provide critical care. The department responds to more than 36,000 medical calls each year.

"We are dismayed by these selfish actions and hope the community can help us find the person or persons responsible," states Tualatin Valley Battalion Chief Chris Dawson.

The agency is asking anyone who has information about the theft please contact the Tigard Police Department at 503-629-0111.

-- Jeff Manning