A debate over non-ambulance transport ignited following the Oklahoma City firefighter’s actions and subsequent discipline for taking a burned toddler to the hospital in a fire engine. Lexipol Editorial Director Greg Friese weighs in on the complex issue, asking “Is fire engine transport ever the best choice for an injured child?”
By Laura French
OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — An Oklahoma City firefighter has been disciplined for transporting a child burn patient in a fire engine, officials say.
The firefighter reportedly decided to transport the 3-year-old girl after waiting for Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA) personnel to arrive at the scene on Christmas Eve, according to KOCO. The girl had suffered burns to her lower body.
An EMSA supervisor filed a complaint following the incident. Officials say the firefighter’s actions went against both EMS protocol and state law.
Oklahoma City Deputy Chief Mike Walker reported last week that the firefighter involved had been disciplined and that the discipline did not involve demotion, termination or loss of pay. Walker told KOCO he hoped the incident would be “a learning event.”
Next: Listen in as Fire Chief Marc Bashoor weighs in on the issue