Raziah Athman is an award-winning journalist, she was Africanews’ Deputy Editor-in-Chief and Head of English edition of the channel but now produces news for Vision Group TV platforms, newspaper and podcasts. 

She started her journalistic career back in 2006 in Uganda working for the various ...

Uganda: Boat ambulance saving islanders

26 May 2023  |  www.africanews.com  |  English  |  Emergency Services

A boat ambulance at Bwama Health Center III on Lake Bunyonyi significantly reduces the time needed to transport patients from the islands to the health facility, improving access to medical care for pregnant women and other patients. The service, currently managed by the Ministry of Defense, will be handed over to the Ministry of Health in two years. The district requires additional boats to meet the needs of the islanders. The World Health Organization reports a maternal mortality ratio of 284 per 100,000 live births in Uganda.

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Emergency Services Healthcare Maternal Health

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Sarah Betancourt is a journalist based in New York, United States of America.

Mass.’s migrant ‘emergency’: How did we get here?

10 Aug 2023  |  GBH  |  English  |  State of Emergency

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey declared a state of emergency due to the overwhelmed emergency shelter system, which is seeing an influx of migrant families. The declaration aims to expedite state hiring, activate the National Guard, and potentially increase federal aid. Healey joins other governors in urging the Biden administration to address the crisis by reducing work authorization backlogs. The state's response has intensified following the hiring of immigrant-rights advocates Susan Church, Ronnie Millar, and Cristina Aguilera Sandoval. The article questions the effectiveness of the declaration and compares Massachusetts' welcoming stance to New York City's discouraging approach. Monique Tú Nguyen of Boston's Office of Immigrant Advancement highlighted the city's support for migrant families.

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Migrant Services State of Emergency Immigration Crisis Affordable Housing Federal Work Authorizations State Government Response

Blair is a multimedia freelance journalist and emergency and critical care doctor based in Toronto, Canada.  He received his journalism training at the Munk School of Global Affairs and his research training at the Institute for Medical Sciences, both at U of Toronto. His medical training was at ...

All Canadians deserve access to precious emergency care

01 Oct 2023  |  The Globe and Mail  |  English  |  Emergency Services

Quebec's trial of a helicopter ambulance service highlights the broader issues in Canada's air-ambulance network, which is plagued by disjointed services and patchwork funding. Despite the Canada Health Act's guarantees, many Canadians face hefty bills for emergency transport due to gaps in provincial and territorial coverage. The article emphasizes the need for better funding and reciprocal agreements to ensure all Canadians have access to essential emergency care, regardless of their location or provincial health insurance status.

Tags:

Emergency Services Healthcare Rural Access

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Political View

Rebecca Bird is an ethical multimedia journalist and news editor based in Newcastle, United Kingdom. She has more than 17 years of experience working on newspapers, news websites and radio stations in the UK and the Caribbean.

Rebecca has additional related skills in photography, videography, ...

Flow 911 landline back in action after brief morning outage

21 Nov 2023  |  www.caymancompass.com  |  English  |  Emergency Services

The Flow landline to the 911 communications center in the Cayman Islands experienced a brief outage but was restored by 11:32 am. During the outage, the public was advised to use Digicel lines for emergency calls. Sean Vasquez, acting director of the 911 communications center, confirmed the issue was being addressed by Flow. The Royal Cayman Islands Police Service provided alternative contact numbers for police-related matters. The Health Services Authority also confirmed that its main phone lines were back in action. The public can register for emergency alerts from Hazard Management Cayman Islands.

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Emergency Services Telecommunications

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Jessica Brown is a freelance journalist and copywriter based in London. 

She writes about sustainability, social and cultural issues, health, food and science, and has bylines at the BBC, Guardian, The Sunday Times, Independent, Big Issue, Vice and more. 

Her copywriting work focuses mainly ...

Massachusetts emergency room pleas for patients to consider urgent care

03 Oct 2023  |  www.wcvb.com  |  English  |  Emergency Services

Local hospitals in Massachusetts are experiencing a surge in emergency room visits, leading to long wait times and overcrowded conditions. Dr. Kelly Lannutti from South Shore Health highlights the impact of recent hospital closures and urges patients with non-acute conditions to consider urgent care centers, which have significantly increased in number across the state. Dr. Michelle Dalencour of Emerson Health emphasizes that urgent care centers are well-equipped to handle non-life-threatening conditions, offering quicker service compared to emergency rooms. The article underscores the importance of directing patients to the appropriate care facilities to manage hospital resources effectively.

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Emergency Services Healthcare Hospital Management

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An experienced general reporter, political reporter, consultant, producer and presenter for radio, TV and podcasts with over 25 years’ experience delivering original local, national and international stories to diverse audiences. International reporting and production experience. Detailed knowledge ...

People encouraged to take part in scheme

08 Mar 2024  |  Ivybridge & South Brent Gazette  |  English  |  Emergency Services

People are urged to register for the keyholder scheme by Devon and Cornwall Police to ensure emergency services can access their buildings during incidents. The scheme, operational for over 10 years, helps businesses and residents by maintaining a record of individuals who can access properties in emergencies. Information is kept for two years, after which updates are required. The scheme is free and aims to improve response times during emergencies, including warnings for dangers like flooding or pollution.

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Emergency Services Community Safety

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Anna Conkling is a freelance journalist from New York. Her work focuses on current events, climate change, the war in Ukraine, and pop culture.

Ukraine’s First Responders at War

02 Oct 2023  |  www.villagevoice.com  |  English  |  Emergency Services

Emergency first responders in Ukraine are playing a crucial role in the war effort, providing medical aid under dire conditions. They face significant risks, with many hospitals and healthcare workers targeted by Russian attacks. The article highlights the experiences of Oleksander Hlazyrin and Victoria Nagornaya, who have adapted to the increased demands and dangers of their roles. Despite equipment shortages and personal risks, they continue to evacuate and treat civilians and soldiers. The article underscores the resilience and dedication of Ukraine's medical personnel amidst the ongoing conflict.

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Emergency Services War in Ukraine Healthcare

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Political View

Nick Davies is a journalist based in Swansea, United Kingdom.

Man with treatable bowel condition died after partner called 999 FIVE times before an ambulance showed up, inquest hears

15 Oct 2023  |  Mail Online  |  English  |  Emergency Services

Charles Devos died from a treatable bowel condition after his partner made five emergency calls before an ambulance arrived. The inquest revealed systemic failures in the health and social care system, with severe pressures on the South Western Ambulance Service leading to delayed response times. Coroner Guy Davies highlighted missed opportunities for treatment and criticized the operational pressures on the ambulance service and hospital handover delays. The coroner plans to address these systemic issues with the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care to prevent future deaths.

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Emergency Services Healthcare System Inquest

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Political View

Alan Greenblatt is a journalist based in St. Louis, United States of America.

Trauma Care Deserts Are a Matter of Life and Death

30 Nov 2023  |  www.governing.com  |  English  |  Emergency Services

In the American West, expansive geography and trauma care deserts present challenges for emergency medical providers, endangering lives of critically injured individuals. Patients in rural areas are often hours away from trauma hospitals, leading to higher mortality rates. An analysis by The Dallas Morning News and medical researchers from the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that tens of thousands of Americans potentially bleed to death annually due to injuries that could have been survivable with quicker access to care. The issue is exacerbated by the lack of federal funding for research and the scarcity of high-level trauma centers in rural Western and Southern states. Colorado exemplifies the rural-urban divide in trauma care, with significant disparities in access to high-level trauma centers. Efforts are being made to improve prehospital care, including the use of air ambulances and the potential for a statewide prehospital blood program. However, rural emergency medical services face funding and staffing challenges, with many relying on volunteers and facing the risk of calls going unanswered.

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Emergency Services Healthcare Rural Challenges

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Tom Grundy is the editor-in-chief and founder of local newspaper Hong Kong Free Press, *******.

Almost 20% of HK 999 calls diverted to recorded message

22 Nov 2024  |  hongkongfp.com  |  English  |  Emergency Services

In 2023, nearly 20% of emergency calls to Hong Kong's 999 number were diverted to a recorded message, up from 12.8% in 2018, amid a rise in total calls. The Hong Kong Police Force attributes this to a proportional increase in call volume, maintaining that response times remain within targets. Despite concerns about potential safety risks, the police plan to review and improve 999 services and promote alternative reporting methods. The article notes a significant rise in reported crimes and police budget over the past five years, while some organizations and lawmakers have not commented on the issue.

Tags:

Emergency Services Public Safety Police Operations

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I am a graduate, NCTJ-qualified editor and communications professional with 16+ years of experience. I have an extensive, demonstrable history of creative and conceptual output and am a focused, critical thinker and strategist who is reliable, hard-working and calm under pressure. Disciplines ...

Tennessee leads nation in statewide adoption of FirstNet for 9-1-1

01 Oct 2023  |  www.firstnet.gov  |  English  |  Emergency Services

Tennessee is leading the nation in upgrading its 9-1-1 network by adopting FirstNet as a backup for all primary public safety answering points (PSAPs). Curtis Sutton, Executive Director of the Tennessee Emergency Communications Board, emphasized the seamless integration and reliability of FirstNet, which has already proven effective in real-world scenarios. The state has focused on redundancy and cybersecurity in its new system, learning from past events like the 2020 Christmas Day bombing in Nashville. Future plans include ensuring interconnectivity with neighboring states and maintaining robust cybersecurity measures.

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Emergency Services Public Safety Technology

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Freelance Photographer with over 35 years experience in press photography and 7 years as Picture Editor on Johnston Press's North West Picture Desk and shifts working on the Sunday Express.

Pa. Counties Need More Funding for 911, Mental Health

03 Oct 2023  |  www.govtech.com  |  English  |  Emergency Services

Somerset County commissioners, along with peers statewide, are urging Pennsylvania lawmakers to increase funding for mental health and 911 services in the 2023-24 budget. They support a 65-cent increase in the monthly cellphone bill fee to bolster 911 services and advocate for an additional $150 million investment in mental health. Governor Josh Shapiro's budget plan includes a $500 million increase in mental health funding over five years. The County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania emphasizes the urgent need for action, as counties struggle with rising costs and insufficient state support. The article also mentions a local engineering firm awarded a contract to design a section of the September 11th National Memorial Trail.

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Emergency Services Mental Health State Budget

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Political View

Myjanne Jensen is a journalist based in Mangōnui, New Zealand.

Drowning incident in Little Cable Bay, Far North

01 Oct 2023  |  NZ Herald  |  English  |  Emergency Services

A man was rescued and given CPR after a water incident involving several people at Little Cable Bay, Far North. Emergency services, including police, fire and emergency, and possibly a rescue helicopter, responded to the scene. The man, who had started to drown, was retrieved from the water and is now alive, being transported by ambulance. Hato Hone St John Ambulance has been contacted for further comment.

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Emergency Services Drowning Incident

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I'm a journalist and feature writer open to work.

Telstra fined $300,000 for failing to provide 19,000 customer details to emergency warning system database

28 Nov 2023  |  www.theaustralian.com.au  |  English  |  Emergency Services

Telstra has been fined $300,000 by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) for failing to provide accurate customer details to the Integrated Public Number Database (IPND), which is crucial for emergency services. This database assists in locating individuals during emergencies and is used by triple-0 services. The investigation revealed that Telstra did not comply with the IPND rules on 19,000 occasions between October 2010 and August 2022, including incidents where silent numbers were incorrectly listed in directory services. Previously, in 2011, Telstra was fined $2.5 million for similar compliance failures. ACMA chair Nerida O’Loughlin emphasized the importance of telcos maintaining effective processes to meet these obligations. Telstra has apologized and committed to an independent review of its compliance processes, quarterly data accuracy checks, and reporting to ACMA.

Tags:

Emergency Services Telecommunications Regulation Data Privacy

Michael Leidig is a journalist based in Wien, Austria.

Fire Service Trials Use Of Robot To Tackle Blaze

13 Dec 2023  |  ViralTab  |  English  |  Technology in Emergency Services

Lancaster firefighters are using a specialist robot in a landmark trial to extinguish a fire in a large building containing over 13,000 tonnes of compacted waste. The robot allows greater access to the fire without risking firefighter safety. The demolition of outbuildings and waste removal is ongoing, with fluctuating smoke plumes being monitored by Lancaster City Council. Residents are advised to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel near the fire site. The fire service warns that the fire, involving large quantities of commercial waste, may continue to smoulder for a prolonged period. Health advice is provided for those experiencing related symptoms.

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Technology in Emergency Services Firefighting

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Natalie Leung is a visual journalist based in Hong Kong.
I am currently working at CNN, experienced in graphic design, infographics, editorial illustrations, animations, brandings, and user experiences.
Here's my portfolio: ****

A patient’s experience at the ED during COVID-19

01 Oct 2023  |  Hospital News  |  English  |  Emergency Services

Paravaneh Laraya's experience at St. Joseph’s Health Centre during the COVID-19 pandemic highlights the safety measures in place at hospitals to protect patients. Despite initial concerns, Laraya felt reassured by the hospital's setup and received prompt and efficient care for her broken arm. Dr. Nadine Laraya, her daughter and a local family physician, emphasizes the importance of not delaying urgent medical care. The article underscores the efforts of St. Joseph’s and St. Michael’s Hospital to maintain safety and encourages patients to seek necessary medical attention.

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Emergency Services COVID-19 Healthcare

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Ana Martins is a journalist based in Lisbon. 
And also a Screenwriter, Film Director, Copywriter, Voice-Over and Radio Host.

Constraints in emergency services intensify in the last week of the year

24 Dec 2023  |  SIC Notícias  |  Portuguese  |  Emergency Services

Approximately half of the emergency units will be fully operational in the last week of the year, according to the executive direction of the National Health Service (SNS), which anticipates a general normalization of these services starting in January. The reorganization plan for the emergency services network indicates that 45 units will be fully operational during the last week of 2023. Despite additional limitations during the Christmas period due to professional unavailability and refusal to work beyond the legally mandated 150 annual overtime hours, the SNS has maintained service quality and safety. The document highlights the impact of respiratory infections and colder temperatures on emergency services and hospital admissions. Patients are advised to contact SNS24 in case of acute illness and 112 for emergencies. The SNS executive direction will continue weekly evaluations to ensure system predictability and service quality.

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Emergency Services Healthcare

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Shaina McLawrence is a journalist that has worked in various multimedia fast paced environments.

Tom Melville is a mutli-media and broadcast journalist based in Tunis, Tunisia.

Patients sicker, waiting longer: NSW Health Numbers revealed

01 Oct 2023  |  www.abc.net.au  |  English  |  Emergency Services

New South Wales Emergency departments are experiencing unprecedented pressure, with an increase in patients presenting life-threatening conditions and rising wait times. The Bureau of Health Information's quarterly report highlights these challenges, which experts suggest are not confined to New South Wales alone.

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Emergency Services Healthcare Public Health

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Filippo Poltronieri is a journalist based in Rome, Italy.

150 euro and you skip the line. I take you to the private emergency rooms in Rome

27 Nov 2023  |  RomaToday  |  Italian  |  Emergency Services

Public emergency rooms in Rome are facing significant challenges, including long wait times, neglected elderly patients, and assaults on medical staff. In response, private healthcare providers have expanded their services to include 24-hour emergency rooms offering initial diagnoses for fees ranging from 120 to 200 euros.

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Emergency Services Healthcare Private Healthcare

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Nikhil Pradeep is a journalist based in Thiruvananthapuram, India.

Understanding the Working Methods of '112' Emergency Response Support System

01 Oct 2023  |  www.asianetnews.com  |  Malayalam  |  Emergency Services

The article details the operational methods of the '112' Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) in Thiruvananthapuram, India. It explains how the public can access police services via a toll-free number, text messages, or the '112 India' mobile application. The system is managed by the State Police Headquarters and involves around 60 police officers handling approximately 5,000 calls daily. The article also highlights the integration of various emergency services and the challenges posed by misuse of the service.

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Emergency Services Public Safety

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Fernando Russo is a journalist based in Mendoza, Argentina.

Geolocation and Accelerometer: The Secrets Behind Google's Earthquake Alert

09 Jul 2023  |  Los Andes  |  Spanish  |  Emergency Services

A recent earthquake in Mendoza highlighted Google's Android Earthquake Alerts System, which provides early warnings to help users stay safe. The system, which uses geolocation and accelerometers in Android devices, was presented in Mendoza shortly before the quake. Camila Domínguez from Android emphasized the importance of precise information during crises. The Instituto Nacional de Prevención Sísmica (Inpres) supports the system, noting its role in raising awareness and providing accurate data. The Emergency Location Service also enhances the ability to locate individuals during emergencies.

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Emergency Services Technology Earthquake Alert Systems

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Christine Schindler is a journalist based in Brisbane City, Australia.

Kingaroy Cooyar Rd, Upper Yarraman Maidenwell Rd issued fire warning

14 Oct 2023  |  couriermail  |  English  |  Emergency Services

Multiple fire crews have been battling a grassfire near Tarong National Park since 3pm Saturday. Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) have issued a 'prepare to leave' warning for properties near Kingaroy Cooyar Rd and Upper Yarraman Maidenwell Rd. Residents are advised to follow their bushfire survival plans, prepare to leave quickly, and stay informed through QFES updates. The fire poses risks to properties, and smoke may impact visibility and breathing. Roads and services may be affected as the fire progresses.

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Emergency Services Fire Warning

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Sophia Waterfield is a journalist based in York, United Kingdom.

Emergency Services Network: Home Office criticised by MPs

05 Oct 2023  |  Tech Monitor  |  English  |  Emergency Services

The UK's Home Office has been criticized by MPs for spending £2bn on the Emergency Services Network (ESN) without significant progress. The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) highlighted long-term risks to value-for-money and concerns over the Home Office's ability to manage the project. Despite a 2018 reset, issues persist, including the inability to replace former supplier Motorola Solutions. The Home Office remains optimistic but disconnected from reality, with no clear plan to achieve objectives. The PAC also raised concerns about public procurement practices and the potential for EE to become a monopoly supplier. Emergency services expressed doubts about the benefits of ESN, although they still see potential value in the project.

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Emergency Services Government Spending Public Procurement

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Political View