Durban — World Emergency Medical Services Day shone a spotlight on the importance of emergency medical teams.
The MEC for Health in KwaZulu-Natal, Nomagugu Simelane urged the community to protect paramedics because they provide a lifeline during emergencies.
Simelane’s urgent plea comes in the wake of a disturbing incident in eShowe earlier this month, where an emergency medical services (EMS) ambulance was attacked by community members while attending to a motor vehicle accident.
Chaos erupted at the Obanjeni Reserve when EMS personnel were called to assist an injured biker. Tensions flared between bystanders and the biker’s friends. Amidst the escalating conflict, members of the community began hurling stones at the EMS ambulance.
In a swift reaction to ensure their safety, the paramedics abandoned their efforts and withdrew, but not before the vehicle sustained damage to its windshield.
Simelane said their ability to carry out this crucial work is often hindered by acts of criminality, which include attacks on personnel, hijacking of ambulances, and theft of medical equipment. She said these actions not only endanger the lives of EMS teams but also jeopardise the lives of those in need of urgent care.
"Our EMS teams represent a vital lifeline for many people during emergencies, and it is imperative that we protect them," Simelane stated.
She acknowledged the unwavering dedication of EMS workers, many of whom risk their own lives to save others, labelling them as our “heroes.”
Simelane emphasised the need for collective responsibility from the public to ensure the safety of those who serve, urging anyone witnessing acts of violence against EMS personnel to report them immediately.
Simelane labelled the incident as "disturbing and deeply regrettable," compelling the public to reflect on the repercussions of such aggression.
"Damaging state property is a crime, and it is even worse when our EMS crews are attacked while trying to help those who are in distress," she said.
The case has been filed with the eShowe South African Police Service (SAPS) for the estimated damage to state property. Simelane stressed that the impact of such violence could severely compromise the availability of EMS vehicles for urgent responses throughout the province.
Simelane also said the Health Department is committed to ensuring EMS teams are adequately equipped and supported in their essential, life-saving mission.
"We must foster public awareness and respect for the contributions made by EMS personnel. Their services are essential to everyone, and the help they offer today might benefit us all tomorrow," she said.
Garrith Jamieson, spokesperson for ALS Paramedics Medical Services, said to make their jobs easier in assisting those in an emergency by making sure their houses have visible signage including house numbers.
“We also appeal to the public to stop attacking paramedics no matter the circumstances, even if the patient is a suspect in a crime. At times people do not like that or understand that everyone has a right to medical attention.”
Jamieson advised motorists to be more patient and allow ambulances to move through traffic when they are sounding a siren.
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