Some drivers do give way, then slip back behind the ambulance, tailing it as though they are taking the “express lane”.
“This is very dangerous,” Nazri warned. “If the ambulance (driver) jams (on the) brakes, … you’re going to hit the ambulance, especially if you’re tailgating.”
Then there are non-emergencies, making up about 10 per cent of 995 calls each year, or 50 calls a day on average. They delay EMS’ response to real emergencies, where every second is critical.
Since last year, the SCDF operations centre has been screening 995 calls more thoroughly, dispatching ambulances only when there are genuine emergencies, such as breathlessness, excessive bleeding, loss of consciousness, major traumas, seizures and stroke.
Those with non-emergency issues, such as toothaches, constipation, coughs, diarrhoea, headaches, slight burns and toothaches, will not be prioritised or conveyed to hospital.
