We must treat all our first responders with respect

IT is both heartbreaking and disturbing to hear an increase in alcohol-fuelled incidents is taking a huge physical and mental toll on paramedics

IT is both heartbreaking and disturbing to hear an increase in alcohol-fuelled incidents is making paramedics so tired they can’t even spell their own names.

Paramedics and first responders are some of the busiest people in the Territory.

They are first on the scene of a critical motor vehicle accident in the rural area, or to a severe cardiac arrest in the CBD. They are exposed to things we can’t even imagine.

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Emergency situations can be physically and mentally stressful for these professionals and the public, but it is incumbent on us not to disturb or hinder paramedics and first responders when they’re on the job.

The Territory has a problem with alcohol-related harm.

In December last year, it was revealed between the 2017/2018 financial year and the 2019/2020 financial year there was a 14 per cent decrease in alcohol-related presentations to emergency departments, a 24 per cent decrease in high range drink-driving, and a 21 per cent drop in alcohol-related assaults.

These changes were helped by government initiatives such as the alcohol floor-price and the Banned Drinkers Register, but alcohol-related harm is still a problem which will take every member of the Northern Territory community to improve.

Territorians love a cold one, but it is important to remember while indulging in alcohol, we have a responsibility to do so safely for our wellbeing and those around us.

We can avoid harm by handing our keys over to a Sober Bob, not going overboard, and not putting ourselves in a situation that can escalate physically.

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There are critical emergencies that need to be attended to, and alcohol-related harm is at risk of taking away attention from these severe emergencies.

If an ambulance is needed, however, becoming violent towards paramedics just trying to help is unacceptable.

We must treat all our first responders with respect.

They are there often to give lifesaving treatment, and it is a basic human right to have access to adequate care.

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