5 Benefits of Body-Worn Cameras for Paramedics and EMTs

Deterring and De-Escalating Violence and Aggression

Violence and aggression towards ambulance crews has rapidly increased over the last few years. The Association of Ambulance Chief Executives (AACE) has revealed that more than 12,000 paramedics were verbally or physically assaulted in the 12 months to April 2022. The presence of a body camera, especially one with a front-facing screen, is proven to have a calming effect and can help to deter this type of behaviour by serving as a reminder to patients and members of the public to behave appropriately.

Supporting the Safety of Lone Workers

Paramedics working in teams of two often find themselves working alone and vulnerable to violence and aggression. The Royal College of Nursing Employment Survey 2021 found that within community settings, the highest incidences of physical abuse were reported among respondents working in people’s homes (15.4%). Equipping lone workers with body-worn cameras provides an extra layer of protection that helps paramedics feel safer and more confident when on duty.

Capturing First-Hand Video and Audio Recordings

Body-worn cameras act as an impartial witness and can capture video recordings wherever a paramedic or EMT is working, whether that’s in public open spaces or people’s homes. This provides increased transparency and accountability and offers valuable and accurate evidence in cases of aggressive behavior or resolving complaints. Furthermore, it increases the chance of conviction and minimizes the need for lengthy reports and court proceedings.

Enhancing Training and Learning for Paramedics and EMTs

Reviewing footage of past incidents provides a valuable learning resource by helping paramedics and EMTs to understand and identify triggers of aggression. It can also help improve conflict management training so that emergency services crews are adequately prepared to approach similar situations safely in the future.

Supporting the Placement of Risk Markers

Footage captured on a body camera that provides evidence of violence or aggression towards paramedics and EMTs can be used to support the placement of risk markers on specified addresses, marking them unsafe for ambulance crews to enter without police support.

Learn more about our body cameras for ambulance crews or download the article to share with your team.

Share

5 Benefits of Body-Worn Cameras for Paramedics and EMTs