Tag Archives: GWEMS

Seasoned fire and EMS leader comes to Guelph as interim fire chief

Guelph, Ont., November 19, 2015 – Today, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Derrick Thomson announced the selection of Andy MacDonald as the City of Guelph’s interim general manager of Emergency Services and fire chief. MacDonald, former fire chief for the City of Brampton and current director of Fire Management Studies at Humber College, has had a long career in fire and the emergency management services. “Andy is an accomplished senior municipal leader who is highly regarded in municipal circles on account of his proven track record,” says Thomson. “Andy brings both thorough, first-hand knowledge of the fire and EMS sector, and broad senior management experience in municipal government, making him an outstanding selection.” MacDonald has held a variety of fire service positions including deputy fire chief… Continue reading Seasoned fire and EMS leader comes to Guelph as interim fire chief

Paramedics using new drill for easier vascular access in patients

Guelph, On, November 4, 2014 – Guelph-Wellington Emergency Medical Service has purchased a potentially life-saving device for each of its frontline ambulances. The EZ-IO drill, put on ambulances earlier this week, enables paramedics to access a patient’s intravascular system by drilling into a patient’s bones in either the arm or leg. This technique is used in emergency situations to provide fluids and medications to a patient when intravenous access is not available or feasible. “The device is small and simple, but has the potential to dramatically affect patient outcomes in a positive way,” says Leanne Swantko, deputy chief, Guelph-Wellington Emergency Medical Service, adding the device is used as a last resort when no peripheral veins are readily available for access. “The EZ-IO drill is essential… Continue reading Paramedics using new drill for easier vascular access in patients

Local paramedics to provide more community care

City receives $220,000 to develop community paramedicine program Guelph, On, October 29, 2014 – Guelph is one of 30 Ontario communities to receive provincial funding to develop a community paramedicine program to improve access to home care and support services for seniors and other patients with chronic conditions. Speaking at an event in Thunder Bay on October 14, Dr. Eric Hoskins, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, announced the Province would support and invest $6 million in the expansion and development of community paramedicine programs across Ontario. Guelph is receiving $220,000. Locally, two programs will be developed to improve access to homecare and support services for high risk seniors and other vulnerable populations. These programs will help seniors and other patients live independently longer, and… Continue reading Local paramedics to provide more community care