Northumberland Paramedics are inviting residents to celebrate Paramedic Services Week during a free community event this Saturday at Rotary Harbourfront Park in Cobourg.
The family friendly event will take place during the Cobourg Farmers’ Market and is designed to help residents learn more about the evolving role paramedics play in supporting community health and safety.
This year’s Paramedic Services Week theme is “Better Care Starts Here,” highlighting the expanding role of paramedics beyond emergency response into areas including prevention, education, wellness support and community outreach.
Residents attending Saturday’s event will have opportunities to meet local paramedics, explore emergency vehicles and participate in several interactive activities.
Children and families can also meet Ivy Joules, the paramedic therapy dog, along with Terry the Traumasarus, the paramedic mascot, who will be available for photos between 11 a.m. and noon.
Families are encouraged to bring teddy bears or stuffed animals for special “checkups” with the Northumberland Teddy Bear Response Team.
Officials say the program helps children become more comfortable with medical care and emergency responders through playful, age appropriate interactions designed to reduce anxiety during real emergencies.
EarlyON Child and Family Centres will also be onsite offering games and family activities throughout the event.
Northumberland Paramedics Chief Susan Brown says paramedics continue playing an increasingly important role in patient centred care and community wellbeing across the county.
Additional information about Paramedic Services Week and related events is available through Northumberland County’s website.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
