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Local EMS welcome public behind-the-scenes

Bonnyville EMS members gave residents a glimpse inside their world. On Friday, June 1, in celebration of paramedic services week, the local EMS station opened up their doors.
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EMS member Shelby Kopala helps Autumn McCurry, 7, bandage up her teddy in the teddy bear clinic.

Bonnyville EMS members gave residents a glimpse inside their world.


On Friday, June 1, in celebration of paramedic services week, the local EMS station opened up their doors. The annual open house was a chance for the public to meet the faces behind the flashing lights and emergency sirens.


“It’s to promote what we do for the community, show the community what services we can provide, and invite them to ask questions and be part of the EMS experience without there being an emergency,” said Alicia Stone, regional deputy chief of EMS.


Now in its fifth year, the event has continued to attract residents of all ages. Attendees took in a demonstration, had a chance to participate in the blood pressure clinic, enjoy a barbecue, and take a tour through the back of an ambulance.


The popular teddy bear clinic also made a return this year, with children lining up to have their stuffed animals assessed and bandaged up by EMS staff.


Local resident Natashia McCurry brought her kids to the open house for the first time this year, and was impressed with what they saw.


“It’s just to get out into the community and show the kids this side of things. Usually, the EMS can be scary for kids, so to show them when it’s not in a scary situation that this can be safe and welcoming. They were really interested in the teddy bear clinic, there’s a barbecue, and we go to the fire station every year so I wanted to see how the EMS open house works.”


This year, Stone noted they also introduced Medi-Magnets at the event. Attendees could pick up the form to fill out and stick on their fridge, making medical information such as allergies and medication accessible when needed.


“We find that during emergencies it’s not the right time to be scrambling to gather that information, so this is a way to have it all in one place. It makes the entire response go smoother and quicker.”


With another successful open house in the books, the Bonnyville EMS department is confident it’s an event that will continue year-after-year.

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