Work During The Festive Season Can Be Challenging: Emergency Personnel

Free State Emergency Medical Services EMS have highlighted the difficulties and challenges faced by emergency workers during the festive season. The region experiences heavy traffic as travelers pass through on their way to holiday destinations.

EMS personnel say they are on standby and prepared for any accidents that may occur. Since the start of the festive period, over 23 road fatalities have been reported in the province.

One EMS worker explained, "Drivers under the influence, those distracted by their cellphones, and other factors contribute significantly to road accidents, especially on our national roads. Fatigue also plays a major role in these incidents."

Another EMS worker emphasized the importance of accurate communication: "When we call the control center, we must provide truthful and clear information about the situation. Giving false details can delay the response to other emergencies that also require urgent attention."

In a separate incident, the N1 highway near Kroonstad was temporarily closed after a truck carrying explosives caught fire, causing significant disruption to traffic.