The Ohio Department of Public Safety, Division of EMS, in partnership with the Mentor Fire Department, has created “Be Part of the Solution”, a public service announcement (PSA) that the Division of EMS is providing as a resource for EMS systems to provide education and empowerment to their community when non-transport protocols are implemented.
As communities prepare for the Covid-19 outbreak to run its course, according to the Ohio Department of Public Safety, the current goal is to slow the spread so that health resources are not overwhelmed. To that end, they’re asking those contemplating calling 911 to consider whether their situation is indeed an emergency. They noted that those experiencing chest pain, stroke, trauma, and other serious conditions should call 911.
First responders ask that those who are not experiencing life-threatening situations to refrain from contacting 911, and consider other transportation options to seek medical attention. According to the PSA, those who are experiencing what they believe to be symptoms of Covid-19, but who are under 60 years of age, are not diabetic, are not pregnant or immune-compromised, and do not have a history of lung or heart disease should contact their primary care or visit a local urgent care facility.
According to the PSA, during increased demand for EMS services these days, a routine call to emergency responders takes roughly one hour, from the time the 911 call is placed to the time it takes to sanitize the vehicle for the next call. And that means that one less EMS team available for those in real need of those life-saving services.
According to Hiram Fire Chief Bill Byers, “Given the amount of non-emergency calls (we) get, and add in the current (Covid-19) situation, it’s a good topic to consider.” To view the PSA, visit the City of Mentor’s page on YouTube.
In similar news, the Mantua-Shalersville Fire District shared that in order to protect against the spread of Covid-19, dispatch will ask callers a series of Covid-19 screening questions in order that first responders can be adequately prepared during their response. They shared that callers should expect to see responders wearing face masks, and share that it’s “as much for your protection as for theirs”. Echoing the sentiments of the previously mentioned PSA, they ask that if callers do not have an immediate, life-threatening illness, to contact their primary care practitioner or visit an urgent care facility.
For more information on Covid-19, call the Ohio Department of Health hotline at 1-833-4ASKODH during the hours of 9 am through 8 pm daily, including weekends or visit coronavirus.ohio.gov.
