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Drug overdose calls taking a toll on firefighters

Edmonton firefighters respond to 30 per cent more medical calls in 2023 than in 2022. Global News

First responders in Vancouver are saying B.C.’s overdose crisis is taking a heavy toll on them as they deal with a steady increase of victims.

The Vancouver Firefighters Association says crews are sometimes reviving the same people on a daily basis.

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READ MORE: Delta Police called to 9 drug overdoses in 20 minute period

Many calls are in the Downtown Eastside where the fire hall responds to more than 1,000 calls a month, many of them overdoses.

The association is worried the sheer volume of calls could one day prevent crews from reaching a fire on time.

 

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