Guest View

Tyler J. Moffitt
The Safety Advocate

Presently, many municipalities in Canada have experienced a decrease in fires in their communities. However, other emergencies such as medical calls have increased. Why?
The answer may be found by looking at the current trend across Canada.
Fact: We have an aging population. Looking at federal statistics, they show the senior population from 1996 being doubled in approximately 10 years from now! That translates to a drastic increase in medical calls, which our paramedics and fire and rescue service responds to.
Are we prepared? Why not? Again, the answer may be found by looking at the current trend across Canada. The government, such as the province has downloaded many different responsibilities, and the financial burden that goes along with them to local municipalities. Bottom line, municipalities cannot afford to fund these extra responsibilities, as well as increasing their emergency responders in preparation for the increase in medical calls.
The forecast is grim. As the aging population increases—along with the medical calls and hospital visits—the emergency response and medical care decreases. Basically, there is and will be less emergency responders and medical staff to respond and provide medical care for the increased call volume.
Presently, many communities across Canada have a shortage of doctors, while others don’t have any! Other communities are looking to decrease the level of fire and rescue personnel, as well as their land ambulance service. It’s not good—is unacceptable—we have a crisis in our hands!
The leaders of all levels of government need to respond to this crisis with an open mind, without mindsets, and old assumptions.
With any problem or issue, leaders and citizens need to look at some key areas to address. They are: equipment, materials, procedures, environment, measurement (things that are measurable e.g. statistics), people and personnel.
Where is your community headed? Is your community prepared to deal with the crisis? What is your community’s plan?
Take responsibility for your health and safety now. Take care of what you have!

Safety—it starts with you!
Tyler J. Moffitt served with the OPP, and is a volunteer firefighter and emergency responder. Safety in Canada was developed in the interest of public safety.