People in Need of Medical Attention Should Call 9-1-1

Fire officials in Keizer are concerned over the number of citizens driving themselves to the fire station, instead of calling 9-1-1.

Salem-News.com

(KEIZER) - Keizer Fire District officials have recently noticed an increase of people in need of emergency medical services driving to the fire station to receive medical aid from paramedics.

District officials would like to remind people that in emergency situations it is far better to call 9-1-1 to get assistance.

There are many reasons for calling for help, rather than trying to drive for help.

Emergency vehicles, using light and sirens, can usually come to you faster than you can drive to a fire station.

If the patient’s condition worsens while traveling to a fire station, and you need to call for help, it is harder for emergency services personnel to locate a car on the road than it is to find a house address.

Another point to remember is if fire station personnel are responding to another emergency call for help, no one may be at the fire station to provide service.

By calling 9-1-1 to request service you are assured that the closest units to you will be alerted and respond to your emergency.

Jim Trett, Keizer Fire District Public Information Officer, says that paramedics are very concerned about getting medical attention to patients of serious injury or illness as soon as possible because early treatment can make a big difference in the long term outcome of that case.

Trett said, “If in doubt dial 9-1-1.”