Medavie Health Services West is asking residents who see someone who they believe may require an Ambulance to “STOP and Check” before calling 911.
“As we hit the warmer summer months we are already seeing calls for individuals laying in parks who don’t require an ambulance when we arrive on scene,” said Medavie Health Services West Director of Public Affairs and Media Relations Troy Davies.
“With our increased call volumes and demands on paramedics, responding to false calls, or calls that don’t require an ambulance has an impact on our ability to respond to actual emergency calls.”
Davies said last summer Medavie West Health Services paramedics were responding to individuals who were sleeping in the park.
“We appreciate the Good Samaritans who are looking out for others, but please ensure individuals actually require an ambulance before calling,” said Davies.
He said knowing when to call an ambulance can help reduce current call volumes.
“But, if in doubt on whether you should call or not, always make the call,” said Davies.