CHQR AM 770 (Alberta, Canada)
CALGARY, Alberta — A pilot project is underway at the Calgary Zoo which will see a paramedic based at the zoo during July and August. The goal is to reduce response times for zoo-based emergencies. As the zoo expands its programs, attendance continues to grow. The zoo has partnered with EMS and is paying to have a paramedic based on site using a specialized cart to get to various areas of the 100 acre site. EMS Chief Tom Sampson says while response time to the park is only six minutes, getting to the injured patient takes time.
“What we found is that we can get to the gates of the zoo ground very quickly, but then manouevering within the gate grounds is very difficult.”
Zoo officials say while most calls are minor, there have been more serious cases of broken bones and heart attacks.