Emergency service providers have been honouring local heroes this week as part of ‘Paramedic Services Week’.
Andrew Tickner is the Director and Chief of Emergency Medical Services of the Kenora District Services Board and says this year has been a year like no other due to the pandemic.
“Local paramedics have been helping with mobile COVID testing, mobile vaccinations for homebound and seniors in congregate living. They’ve been helping monitor patients with COVID at home. Paramedics were also part of the ‘Operation Remote Immunity’, helping bring vaccinations to First Nations in the Far North.”
Tickner stresses local EMS continuously go above and beyond the call of duty.
He offers the following message to all local paramedics:
The theme for annual recognition campaign this year is ‘Paramedic as Educator-Citizen Ready’
Tickner says, “When members of the public know what simple steps to take, really makes a difference. All members of the public should really learn to do CPR and use a basic AED, some basic first aid and obviously make certain they have a first aid kit on hand.”
He stresses public cooperation is critical to allow local EMS to provide care for in-home patients or everyday emergency situations.
Northwest EMS has 170 paramedics and 12 administrative staff across the district.
The organization operates with 22 ambulances and 5 emergency response vehicles out of 10 regional bases.
