Providence implements emergency medical service bike unit for overdose prevention
by NBC 10 NEWS, September 20th 2023, 2:21 PM EDT
Photo: Providence Fire Department file image. (WJAR)
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley announced Wednesday that the city will implement the Providence Fire Department’s Emergency Medical Services Bicycle Unit.
The mayor’s office said the specialized unit within the fire department began in mid-August with the aim to provide preventative emergency services to residents struggling with substance use and for them to get connected to recovery resources.
“This program is a strong step in the right direction, providing residents better access to services and making public safety officers more accessible in our community,” Smiley said. “Whether it’s giving basic first aid support or making Narcan more accessible in emergency situations, our officers are helping make Downtown safer for the many residents, students, workers, and visitors that traverse through it every day.”
The mayor's office said the EMS bike units will be working in the downtown area.
City officials said the pilot program for the EMS bikes will continue through mid-October, working the downtown area on weekdays from noon to 4 p.m. The fire department officials participating in this program are focused on providing preventative emergency services, overdose prevention and intervention and public education, according to the mayor’s office.
According to officials, the EMS bikes have Narcan kits that contain Narcan, protective gloves and information on safe stations for those looking to enter recovery program. The bikes are also equipped with an AED, oxygen, IV and over-the-counter medications.
Narcan kits containing nasal Narcan, protective gloves and information on PVD Safe Stations for those looking to enter recovery programs. The EMS Bicycle Unit is also equipped with an AED, oxygen, IV and over-the-counter medications.