The latest statistics released by the City of Calgary indicate that the fire department is projected to handle more than 170% additional overdose-related calls this year compared to the previous year. Calgary’s Fire Chief, Steve Dongworth, highlighted that this surge in overdose calls is part of a broader trend of increased medical emergencies, which is expected to set a new record for the department’s call volume.
According to Dongworth, overdose calls now make up approximately half of all calls received, underscoring the evolving role of firefighters and the resultant challenges they face. He acknowledged that this shift impacts service performance and the availability of units to promptly respond to emergencies.
To tackle these challenges, the fire department has been reviewing the necessity of fire response to different types of calls. However, the gains made in this area are being offset by the rising number of opioid overdose incidents, as explained by Dongworth.
The demanding nature of these calls also takes a toll on the department’s staff. Dealing with individuals in distressing circumstances with potentially fatal outcomes adds to the strain, leading to an increase in employees taking time off.
Looking ahead, Dongworth emphasized the need for increased budget allocations from the city to address these mounting challenges. He also called on the provincial government to provide financial support to cover the costs associated with the escalating volume of medical calls, particularly overdose-related incidents.
In response to these concerns, Maddison McKee, press secretary for Hospital and Surgical Health Services, highlighted that the fire department already receives an annual sum of around $300,000 through Alberta’s Medical First Response Program. McKee noted that municipalities are responsible for determining the deployment of fire resources based on local requirements, including their response to medical emergencies.
Additionally, Monty Ghosh, an addictions specialist and professor at the University of Calgary and University of Alberta, suggested that changes in the local drug supply, including the presence of potent forms of fentanyl mixed with stronger animal tranquilizers, may be contributing to the rise in overdoses. This altered drug composition has made overdose responses more challenging, potentially leading to an increased reliance on emergency services such as EMS and fire departments for assistance.
Ghosh emphasized that the evolving drug supply dynamics could be a factor in the heightened demand for firefighter interventions in overdose cases. The altered drug compositions are posing challenges in effectively managing overdoses within the community, necessitating additional support from emergency services.