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Tallinn to be patrolled by paramedics on electric bikes this summer
The cycle paramedics team in the Estonian capital Tallinn will be on duty in the Old Town and city center throughout the summer months and will be able to respond swiftly to medical emergencies in congested locations, ERR reported.
Electric bicycles with a top speed of 25 km/h are used by the cycle paramedics in Tallinn, allowing them to be both efficient and friendly to the environment. On bikes, the cycle response unit can readily navigate narrow streets, pedestrian zones, and shopping malls, which is a prime example of how micro mobility options can directly benefit communities.
Personnel is trained and prepared to deliver quick and effective medical aid to patients with simple or complex medical issues, including resuscitation and injury treatment.
Deputy Mayor Betina Beškina told ERR: ‘’Speed is the main advantage over conventional ambulances, especially in crowded areas where it is more difficult for ambulances to get around. For example, in the Old Town, access is often limited for motor vehicles and the fastest way to provide expert and often life-saving help is by bicycle.”
A normal ambulance is dispatched if the patient requires hospitalization. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Tallinn cycle paramedics assisted roughly 300 patients per season.
According to Tallinn ambulance service chief doctor Raul Adlas, 85 patients with minor trauma or health concerns were treated on the spot last year, 79 were sent to the hospital, and 52 were turned over to the police. He added that the paramedics cycled more than 8,920 kilometers altogether. (photo credit: Albert Truuväärt. Tallinn.ee)
