By London Ambulance Services, EMS1 Contributor
LONDON — The London Ambulance Service will take part in this year’s Pride event on Saturday, June 25 with around 40 ambulance, control and support staff joining the parade through central London with an ambulance.
As well as marching in the parade, the LAS is also providing medical cover for the Pride event. A special control room will be opened to respond to incidents in the event area and mobile teams will attend on foot in the busy areas carrying all the kit they require for medical emergencies. There will also be three treatment centres set up and over 140 staff ready to respond.
“We are excited to be part of the parade and we always get a good reception from the crowds,” Steph Adams, London Ambulance Service LGBT forum chair, said.
“Pride is just a fantastic, joyful day. Those of us in the parade go in on our own time and we are proud to be seen in our uniform to show the public ‘this is us, this is who we are and that we’re part of an accepting organisation. This also fits with this year’s theme of #NoFilter – where people are encouraged to be themselves.”
Last year the LAS treated 70 patients and took nine to hospital – mostly for intoxication through drugs and alcohol.
Incident and Delivery Manager Paul Gates is responsible for the medical cover at the event. “We want everyone to have a good time but don’t take drugs and make sure you drink sensibly,” Gates said. “eat a meal and plan your journey home so you don’t end your day in the back of an ambulance.”
“Spectators who feel unwell or have minor injuries or illness are encouraged to make their own way to one of the treatment centres. This will be the quickest way to access medical help,” Gates said.
Who’s coming along to #Pride2016 this weekend? We’ll be there showing our support! https://t.co/Tw9dC3MIpg pic.twitter.com/WnPHgkWES5
— London Ambulance (@Ldn_Ambulance) June 22, 2016