The Edmonds Fire Department was dispatched to 102 calls in and around Edmonds the week of July 28 – Aug. 3, which brings this year’s call volume to 3,063. Medical crews evaluated 76 patients; fire crews responded to 26 incidents.
Bariatric equipment
EFD firefighters and medical crews often respond to patients with specific physical challenges in addition to the reason for their 911 call. Bariatric-patient dispatches require additional manpower and/or bariatric equipment to move an obese patient.
Bariatrics is the branch of medicine that deals with the causes, prevention and treatment of obesity.
The department recently acquired four bariatric cots (gurneys) that are wider and can support more weight than standard models. The gurneys make patient transfer and transport safer and more comfortable, and help protect responding crews from back and other injuries. Typically, bariatric equipment is necessary for patients who weigh 450 pounds or more.
In addition to stronger and bigger gurneys, emergency-response agencies nationwide are outfitting medic units and ambulances with loading devices, ramps, special suspension systems and winches to accommodate very large patients.
EFD does not have bariatric medic units. Local private carriers provide bariatric transport in emergency situations and for transport to medical appointments.
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