Operation of 33 Ambulances Until September 30
27 Fire Pump Trucks Designated as Standby Units
The Gwangju Fire and Safety Headquarters announced on June 15 that it will operate a "Heatwave Emergency Squad" until September 30 to prepare for the occurrence of heat-related illnesses during the summer heatwave season.
The "Heatwave Emergency Squad" is equipped with emergency treatment supplies for heat-related illnesses, such as ice vests, saline solution, and thermometers, which are always available in ambulances. The squad focuses on field-based activities such as providing emergency treatment for heat-related patients and transporting them to hospitals. The operation will center around 33 ambulances.
The Fire and Safety Headquarters also plans to designate and operate 27 "Pambulances" as standby units in case there are no ambulances available for dispatch within its jurisdiction. "Pambulance" is a portmanteau of "pump" and "ambulance," referring to a fire pump truck equipped with emergency medical functions. When ambulances are unavailable, the Pambulance is dispatched to provide initial emergency care. The Fire and Safety Headquarters has also completed training to enhance on-site emergency response capabilities for heatwaves.
Choi Jeongsik, head of the 119 Response Division, stated, "We will do our utmost to protect the lives and safety of citizens through the operation of the Heatwave Emergency Squad," and urged, "We ask citizens to refrain from outdoor activities during periods of intense heat and to prevent heat-related illnesses by staying hydrated and taking adequate rest."
Meanwhile, the Gwangju Fire and Safety Headquarters reported that there were a total of 62 cases of heat-related illnesses in Gwangju last year, with 49 patients transported to hospitals after receiving emergency care from the Heatwave Emergency Squad.
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