B.C. paramedics urge public to stay in as calls surge during snow storm
Posted January 15, 2020 1:26 pm.
Last Updated January 15, 2020 1:28 pm.
NEWS 1130 (VANCOUVER) — Paramedics are joining the chorus of voices urging people to avoid all unnecessary travel, as calls due to car crashes and falls have doubled.
“Certainly, we are experiencing higher than normal demand, especially with falls due to the snow. We’ve had approximately double the number of calls for falls and a significant increase in motor vehicle incidents as well,” says Neil Lilley with BC Emergency Health Services.
"We are currently experiencing higher than normal call volumes!" During an increase in calls, our call takers and #dispatchers are highly trained to prioritize calls based on medical urgency. If yours is not a medical emergency, consider calling the 8-1-1 nurse line. #snowday pic.twitter.com/DrcNJqycLk
— BC Emergency Health Services (@BC_EHS) January 15, 2020
He says crews are coping with the demand and ambulances are equipped with tire chains.
But he says staying indoors, if possible, is the safest option.
“It can be very dangerous so I just encourage the public of B.C. not to venture outdoors in this weather unless it’s absolutely necessary. Trips and falls are very common, so are motor vehicle incidents. If you do have any elderly friends or neighbours please make sure that you can check upon them.”
Oh yes, BC's #paramedics are busy. Yesterday we had double our normal volume for falls. Vancouver #dispatchers and call takers responded to more than 170 calls for fall injuries. And not just the frail are failing – these emergency calls are for all ages.
Be cautious out there. pic.twitter.com/hLY6ZtQI4t— BC Emergency Health Services (@BC_EHS) January 14, 2020
Lilley says paramedics and hospital staff face the same challenges commuting to work as everyone else, and is commending their commitment.
Grateful to all our staff who fought to get into work today so our ambulance stations and dispatch command centres are staffed. Special kudos to the Northern crews who did it in minus 40 temperatures, with frozen pipes and gear. Great #paramedic care. pic.twitter.com/sE1142XLVO
— BC Emergency Health Services (@BC_EHS) January 15, 2020
“Health authorities across the province, they’re managing the situation very well. they’re managing to turn around our crews at emergency departments very quickly, ensuring that our ambulances are back out on the road and able to respond in a timely manner.”