I was wondering what your thoughts are on this subject.
Local FF/EMT's have been been going to work (EMT on local ambulance), or just driving doing errands in town when the call goes out for a MVA. They are only a few blocks away and respond (non-emergency) to the scene to help. Everything has been fine till lately. The Fire Dept. that does protection of the biggest town and responds to all MVA's has decided (with-out telling anyone) that you must drive on. Or, if you dare, you may park "a few blocks away" and wait till the ambulance arrives" then approach. The local EMS is small and often needs more than just the EMT's they have on the rig and those on the Fire Dept.
What does your Department ask you to do? Do you think those that stop to "help" are in the wrong? Granted, if they respond and "take-over" the scene, there is a problem. But what about just stopping to "help" those hurt and in need of EMS care? Are we crazy? Thanks for your input.
I think it is a good thing when we stop to help the patient. I respond to calls in our district just to help locate houses,addresses and crashes. I send info to the responding agencies letting them know weather to slow down and continue or to step up the pace. As soon as they arrive I controll traffic,or assist. I do not over step my boundaries and have been told to get out o the way also. Some glory hogs take offence to me being there but others thank me for the help. If I were you I would talk to the commanding officer and ask what happened!
For one I believe you are not covered under the mutual aid insurance.So if you get hurt you are one your own.. Even though your intentions are good, and most call's do need more help what is the problem in waitinf or you r tone to go off to go and help... I also believe if you are driving around and you run upon a call go to the ems command ask if they need your help if not then you should get back in your car and go home.... I truly believe that this is your true intention is to help,but others who follow may be called ambulance chasers or are.. Don't set a bad example to the younger group or newbies follow protocol.... Then things will be good...