Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (NJC)
Mangaluru, Aug 13: KMC Hospital, Dr B R Ambedkar Circle, Mangaluru, in association with the Mangaluru City Traffic Police, organised an ambulance awareness rally to create awareness among the public about giving way to ambulances, following traffic rules and ensuring timely emergency medical assistance.
The rally was flagged off by Mangaluru City DCP (Law and Order) Mithun H N IPS, from KMC Hospital. Mangaluru Traffic sub-division PSI Vijay Kumar and representatives of KMC Hospital were present.
The rally passed through various parts of the city, including Clock Tower, City Centre, PVS, Kottara Chowki, Surathkal, Kulashekar, Kavoor, Bhatte, Kuntikana, Nanthoor, Farangipet, Pumpwell, Nethravathi Bridge and Kankanady before returning to KMC Hospital.
Speaking on the occasion, DCP Mithun H N said every second is crucial when an ambulance approaches with its siren and emergency lights on. Giving way to an ambulance is not merely a traffic courtesy but can determine how quickly a critically ill or injured patient receives medical treatment, he said.
He urged motorists to drive responsibly, avoid unnecessary traffic congestion and follow traffic rules to help save lives during emergencies.
More than 50 ambulance and auto drivers participated in the rally. PSI Vijay Kumar created awareness about road safety guidelines. KMC Hospital also felicitated several first responders who had helped patients reach hospitals in time and receive emergency medical care.
Dr Jeedhu Radhakrishnan, Cluster Head – Emergency Medicine, KMC Hospital, Mangaluru, said emergency care begins even before a patient reaches the hospital. Through its five outreach centres, the hospital has provided treatment to more than 7,800 patients and conducted over 250 first-aid training programmes, training more than 12,500 people. More than 300 first-responder certificates and over 250 first-aid kits have also been distributed, he said.
He appealed to the public to give way to ambulances and seek medical assistance without delay during emergencies.
Dr Dattatreya Prabhu, head of Critical Care, KMC Hospital, Mangaluru, said emergency and critical care need not begin only after reaching the hospital. Advanced Life Support ambulances can provide patient assessment, monitoring and certain emergency interventions during transportation. This is particularly important in cases of heart attacks, strokes and serious injuries, he added.
The hospital urged the public to seek immediate medical assistance in cases of heart attacks, strokes, road accidents, workplace injuries and other serious emergencies.
KMC Hospital, Mangaluru, provides 24-hour emergency and ambulance services. The hospital advised the public to save 0824 222 2227 on their mobile phones for use during emergencies.
The hospital emphasised that giving way to ambulances on time and co-operating with emergency services can play a crucial role in saving lives.