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Video: EMS1’s Greg Friese on ambulance theft, security

KXAN interview discussed the growing trend and importance of ambulance security nationwide

By EMS1 Staff

AUSTIN, Texas — EMS1 Editor-in-Chief Greg Friese was interviewed by KXAN to discuss the growing trend of ambulance theft and the importance of security nationwide.

Following a slew of ambulance thefts in Texas, Friese explained why they are so common and how EMS providers can take preventative measures against it.

“Ambulance thefts happen fairly frequently around the county,” Friese said. “They seem to be a crime of opportunity. Often times, somebody that’s fleeing the emergency department decides to leave against medical advice, doesn’t have a ride home and they see an ambulance parked outside the hospital and take it.”

Friese recommends EMS providers make sure an ambulance is secure and locked or has an anti-theft system in place before leaving the vehicle.

Watch the full interview below.