Thursday, January 31, 2008

** Kansas medics back bill punishing assaults on EMS personnel

** North Carolina junior rescuers save paramedic

UNITED STATES NEWS

** Kansas EMS and fire personnel are attempting to stem increasing attacks on emergency personnel. The Topeka Capital-Journal (Tim Carpenter/January 29) said the workers are endorsing a proposed bill that would see such hits officially labeled as battery or aggravated battery against an emergency responder. Now before the Senate Judiciary Committee, the potential statute is also being touted as a proactive measure to ensure volunteers remain the backbone of the state’s emergency system. Kansas Fire Marshal Office spokesman Dan McLaughlin said responders endure about 11 attacks per year while on the job. McLaughlin said, however, the number is likely much higher, as most assaults go unreported.

** A team of Lincolnton, North Carolina teens are being hailed for saving the life of a paramedic, after beginning CPR on Ken Morrison when he collapsed Friday. WSOC TV (January 29) said the youths, who are part of Morrison’s junior rescuer class, initially thought he was faking his illness. After realizing his unresponsiveness was real, the kids used a defibrillator to shock Morrison’s heart three times. He remains in hospital in critical condition. The source of his collapse is not yet known.