Gated communities may delay emergency medical personnel

While gated communities strive for safety, they might be compromising the lives of residents.

Netcare911 has issued a statement about heavily-guarded access points and how, in some situations, they can be a hindrance to emergency medical intervention.

According to Netcare911 director of business development and support services, Shalen Ramduth, emergency medical teams sometimes experience delays at the gates of residential complexes, gated communities and business parks.

Ramduth explained that security guards insist on being provided with full credentials before they will grant them access.

He said while he understands that security procedures have been put in place to protect residents, time is always of the essence in emergency situations.

“Hold-ups of this nature can potentially have serious consequences for the patients,” he said.

Ramduth said Netcare911 strongly recommended that homeowners’ associations and body corporates consider reviewing their access control to cater for the possibility of emergency medical situations.

Ramduth called for protocols to be put in place strictly for legitimate emergency services providers.

“If guards have concerns about the legitimacy of an ambulance or emergency vehicle, one of them could be asked to accompany the vehicle rather than delay it at the entrance to an estate,” Ramduth advised.

He not only suggested protocols be put in place for access to residential areas, complexes or businesses, but also for those requesting emergency assistance.

If possible, he said, callers should contact their security company or gate security personnel to facilitate immediate access for ambulances and emergency response vehicles.

“With a bit of advance planning by both the individual and the community, potential delays can be avoided and the best possible outcomes achieved for patients in an emergency situation,” Ramduth said.

Details: 082 911

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