The dramatic weather that hit Summit over the past several days kept the Summit Volunteer First Aid Squad scrambling to assist Summit residents.
On Sunday, after black ice coated streets and walkways around Summit, the Squad handled nine emergency calls. Many of these were in response to falls on the ice, but the Squad also responded to a serious motor vehicle accident on Route 78 which ended in fatality. It was also one of the busiest days at Overlook Hospital.
On Monday, morning temperatures in the 50s brought a new set of emergency calls. The squad responded to an additional nine calls during the day, with several related to breathing issues or general sickness. “When the weather changes drastically, it is not uncommon to see an increase in these kinds of calls, particularly among patients who have asthma or other lung conditions,” said John Staunton, Squad Captain.
On Tuesday and Wednesday, as the temperature dropped to near zero, the squad responded to a variety of 911 calls, which also included falls, breathing difficulties, and general sickness. In addition, the squad responded to a pedestrian struck by an automobile.
During the Tuesday evening shift, multiple 911 calls were received in a single hour, necessitating three ambulances to be out at once. “We are fortunate to have the vehicles and volunteers to respond to such events,” said Crew Chief, Kari Phair.
Since January 1st, the First Aid Squad has responded to over 50 emergency calls.
The Summit Volunteer First Aid Squad is always looking for new members. For more information on membership, go to www.summitems.org.
