12/28/2025
Always happy to help our neighbors! Everywhere is busy. Please read up on Flu A if you have not yet.
Earlier today, Tri Community Ambulance Service Inc. responded mutual aid to North Tonawanda to provide transport for an EMS call.
We want to thank them for responding to assist us.
There's been a trend over the last few days with a significant increase in EMS calls making no ambulances available across the region.
The bulk of the reason this is occurring is due to both ambulance transport and hospital "walk in" flu cases.
The increase in emergency room traffic at hospitals is creating extended wait times for ambulance crews to clear and get back in service.
Additionally, hospital emergency rooms are also reaching capacity, including DeGraff ER right here in NT.
A few tips:
1. Going by ambulance doesn't get you "seen faster" in the emergency room. In fact, it is possible that depending on your specific situation, even when you go to the emergency room by ambulance you may be sent out to the waiting room.
2. Many common flu symptoms are treatable at home with fluids and rest. Indicators for ambulance transport are chest pain, trouble breathing or other serious symptoms not usually associated with the common flu.
3. Your primary doctor, urgent care or other health clinic settings may be a faster and more reasonable option if you feel further treatment is needed for flu symptoms.
In the meantime, be aware that all hospitals are busy, ambulance crews are busy and everyone is doing the best they can.
