A disturbing incident on Thika Road involving a multiple-car accident highlights concerns about Kenya's emergency services. According to Don William Ouko, who shared his experience, the accident occurred at approximately 10:30 pm and involved a severely injured woman whose legs were almost completely dismembered.
Ouko, who claims to have been an active St. John's first aider, assessed the situation and determined that professional paramedic assistance was required due to the severity of the injuries and potential spinal damage. Despite calling 911 multiple times, the ambulance took over an hour to arrive, during which time the woman lost consciousness and eventually passed away.
Emergency Response Criticized ¶
Ouko expressed frustration with the emergency response, citing unprofessional communication and a lack of urgency from the operators. On one occasion, the operator hung up on him when he requested an update on the ambulance's status.
When the police arrived, they suggested lifting the woman's body onto a truck to take her to the morgue without confirming her death. Ouko insisted that a paramedic should verify her vital signs before moving her. The ambulance eventually arrived, but it was too late, and they confirmed the woman's death.
Call for Improved Emergency Services ¶
Ouko's experience has led him to advocate for a properly established emergency unit with adequate funding, training, and equipment. He emphasizes the need for improved communication systems, allowing emergency responders to track their positions and receive updated maps to facilitate timely responses.
Ouko's account is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by Kenya's emergency services and the need for reform to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The recovered account cited reporting by Nation.
