National Paramedics week runs from May 18 to 25.
Stu McKinnon, acting chief with Muskoka Paramedics Services, says during the week it is important to recognize and celebrate how amazing paramedics are because of all the hard work they put in every single day of the year.
“They’re exceptional clinicians. They’re exceptional people, and they do an outstanding thing for our communities and visitors to our communities. They deserve all the recognition.” says McKinnon.
McKinnon says the key message for this week is: “We care. For everyone.”
He says that theme is fitting in a place like Muskoka because there are permanent residents and a lot of visitors. He wants everyone to know that they care for people equally, regardless of their emergency or where they live.
“Everybody gets the same quality of care in Muskoka,” he said.
According to McKinnon, paramedics provide more than just 9-1-1 response. There is also community paramedicine, where they look after a patient in a non-urgent setting, emergency management, emergency preparedness, and education for the community.
Zach Belfry, community relations coordinator, says they try to be present in the community in non-emergency situations as well.
“We do a lot of touch-a-truck events, to get kids aware with what we do, as well as familiar with the truck. We’re not scary. We’re here to help,” he said.
“We also get out to high schools (to see) if people want to further their education and start in this career. Just being present in the community, in all aspects, in emergency and non-emergency.”
McKinnon reiterated the importance of education, especially because the biggest challenge the Muskoka Paramedic Services face is the rise in demand for their services. As part of their 10-year plan, they are working on growing their service and adding resources.
“Really try and do what you can to learn to support your loved ones, support your family.” says McKinnon.
He says it’s okay to have fun in Muskoka but it’s important to be responsible and safe, especially because there’s a limited number of resources that can respond in the case of an emergency.
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