Thursday, August 16, 2007

** Winnipeg medics’ union cries foul over EMS resources

** Iowa medic arrested for public intoxication

CANADA NEWS

** Winnipeg’s paramedics’ union is once again crying in the EMS wilderness, warning city ambulance resources are inadequate. The Winnipeg Free Press (Bartley Kives/August 15) quoted Professional Paramedic Association of Winnipeg (PPAW) vice-president Marc Savard as saying a lack of staff and resources could create a crisis situation during a major incident. Savard seized the opportunity to make the comments just days after the world witnessed an efficient EMS response to the Minneapolis bridge collapse. He also pointed to the several services that responded to last weekend’s St. Clement’s balloon accident. Responding to the critique, Fire Paramedic Service deputy chief Ken Sim said he was baffled by the union’s claim. Along with saying mutual aid would kick in during disasters, Sim said additional paramedics are expected to be hired this fall.

UNITED STATES NEWS

** A Des Moines, Iowa EMT is set to appear in court August 21 on charges of public intoxication and speeding. KCCI (August 15) said Paul Engman, 34, was arrested Sunday while inside a Midwest ambulance. According to the newspaper, a horse park security officer notified police after allegedly detecting alcohol on Engman’s breath. He was providing EMS services at the time. Following Engman’s arrest, he was terminated from his job.