Lights & Sirens, Ambulance Theft, Assault Prevention

Mike Brown hosts an EMS Week Safety Day conversation with Dr. Douglas Kupas, president of the National Association of EMS Physicians, on practical strategies to protect providers and transform EMS into integrated healthcare. Topics include evidence on reducing lights-and-sirens use; rising ambulance thefts and simple vehicle interlocks; low-cost countermeasures like 3D‑printed stretcher buckle covers and pager-sized CO detectors in first-due bags; training options for managing assaults and the shift toward treat-in-place, mobile integrated health programs; and reimbursement reform. This talk offers practical, field-tested ideas for agencies, medical directors, and EMS providers who want safer, smarter EMS operations.