A Detroit Fire Department paramedic has been placed on leave after crashing an ambulance with a patient onboard while under the influence of alcohol. The incident, which occurred in the city of Hamtramck just after midnight on Friday, resulted in the paramedic side swiping three cars before waiting for police to arrive.
The paramedic, who has been with the department for six years, was tested per department protocol and found to be under the influence of alcohol. As a result, he has been placed on unpaid leave. Detroit Fire Department Commissioner Chuck Simms expressed disappointment in the incident, stating that the department has a zero-tolerance policy for the use of alcohol while on duty.
“We have an outstanding team of EMTs and paramedics at DFD, and it’s unfortunate that this incident detracts from the lifesaving work they do every day,” said Commissioner Simms. He also mentioned that the department has programs and supportive services in place for employees who may be struggling with issues such as alcohol dependency.
Fortunately, the patient in the back of the ambulance was not injured in the crash. The department confirmed that the paramedic involved had no previous accidents or alcohol-related incidents.
The rise in unprovoked attacks on first responders has become a growing concern. To raise awareness of this issue, D.C. firefighter and paramedic Myisha Richards, along with International Association of Firefighters President Ed Kelly, recently appeared on ‘Fox & Friends’. They highlighted the importance of protecting first responders who risk their lives to save others.
It is crucial that incidents like the one involving the drunk paramedic serve as a reminder of the need for strict adherence to professional standards and the enforcement of policies against substance abuse while on duty. The Detroit Fire Department is taking appropriate action to address the situation and ensure the safety of both its employees and the community they serve.
