24/7 Staffing at DTSSAB EMS Central Base to Improve Response Times

As part of a progressive and committed initiative to deliver prompt medical services, the DTSSAB EMS Base in Englehart will shift to a 24/7 staffing model, starting September 9th.

The transition will see the integration of two full-time paramedics at the base, a marked enhancement from the previous Monday-Thursday evening on-call system. As a direct consequence, the communities in the central part of the district can anticipate improvements in paramedic response times, especially during week-night emergencies.

Located strategically at the rear of the Blanche River Health, Englehart site, the DTSSAB EMS base benefits from its proximity to Highway 11. This location not only accelerates response times but also strengthens the collaborative relationship with the hospital, furthering the integrated, patient-centered care approach.

This improvement in staffing is aligned with the provisions in the approved 2023 DTSSAB budget. The move not only guarantees increased service quality but also promises economic efficiency by reducing the costs previously associated with on-call staffing and overtime.

About DTSSAB EMS:

DTSSAB EMS serves the Timiskaming District, consistently striving for excellence in emergency medical care. With a focus on community needs and service efficiency.

Quote from Paramedic Chief, John McCarthy:

As the DTSSAB EMS continues its mission in the Timiskaming District, the focus remains clear – to provide quality, compassionate care to every individual in need. Our EMS team remains committed to constant evolution in service standards. This investment into full-time staffing at the Englehart base will have a direct impact on response times and service of the central community members of the district.”

Quote from CAO:

"At the heart of our decisions at DTSSAB is always one question: "How can we best serve our communities while providing value for money?" Our shift to 24/7 staffing at the Central EMS Base in Englehart is a clear answer to that question. I want to take a moment to recognize our dedicated Board of Directors, whose insights and commitment to our communities have been instrumental in bringing this change to life." - Mark Stewart, Chief Administrative Officer, DTSSAB

Media inquiries can be directed to communications@dtssab.com

July 5th Unveiling of Off-Road Response Unit (ORU)

Due to generous contributions from community partners – the DTSSAB will be formally unveiling the Off-Road Response Unit (ORU) on July 5th, at the Harbourfront Pavilion, in Haileybury.

Since its debut in Spring 2021 the ORU has been deployed on numerous occasions and has been instrumental in several emergencies.

The Off-Road Response Unit, and its accompanying fully enclosed response trailer, provide access to traditionally difficult to reach locations, including, but not limited to:

• Remote work sites

• Snowmobile/ATV trails

• Areas impeded by extreme weather

• Farming areas

The modifications to the unit, including being fully enclosed and climate-controlled, allow for safe transportation of paramedics and patients in an environment comparable to a traditional ambulance. In addition, the enclosed response trailer can be utilized as a mobile command post.

DTSSAB EMS paramedics have received basic training on operations of the ORU and will continue to train and develop the program in the future. This initiative is new territory for DTSSAB EMS and to most paramedic services in Ontario.

We wish to publicly acknowledge those sponsors who made this initiative possible:

• Frog’s Breath Foundation

• Trans Canada

• TC Energy

• Earlton Green Tractors

• OPG

• Co-Op Regionale

• Dr. Tarp

• Northern Signs

• The City of Temiskaming Shores

• Alamos Gold

• Kenogami Fire

• Rowland Emergency

• On Duty Equipment

• Hydro One

• Earlton RV

• Agnico Eagle

• EACOM

Emergency Services Toy Drive a Great Success

The DTSSAB’s EMS program would like to express a big thank you to the individuals of Kirkland Lake and surrounding area who supported the Emergency Services Toy Drive this weekend at the Canadian Tire and Giant Tiger. We had an overwhelming response from the community who shared their generosity by donating toys and money.  Together with Kirkland Lake Fire & Emergency Services and Kirkland Lake OPP we were able to fill an ambulance, paramedic response unit, fire services pick up truck and police cruiser with toys, money and gift cards for all ages. It’s a privilege to be of service to a great and generous community!

A special thank you to all the firefighters, police officers and paramedics (and their kids) who volunteered to come out and brave the cold for a few hours for a great cause!

Also, a special shout out to those who dropped by with treats of hot chocolates, coffees and hand warmers. This was very thoughtful and much appreciated!