KAWARTHA LAKES-Kawartha Lakes paramedics responded to over 14,000 calls in 2025, approximately one call every 37 minutes. The service also added four new paramedics and implemented the Medical Priority Dispatch System (MPDS), improving 911 call prioritization and reducing the number of ambulances responding into the Kawartha Lakes.
Paramedic Services Week is May 17 to 23, 2026. Kawartha Lakes Paramedic Service is taking the opportunity to celebrate the dedicated paramedics and their achievements over the past year.
This year’s Paramedic Services Week theme, “Better Care Starts Here,” recognizes the important role paramedics play in delivering compassionate, evidence-informed care while working closely with healthcare partners and the community to support better patient outcomes. Paramedics continue to strengthen the healthcare system and improve the quality of care for the communities they serve.
“During Paramedic Services Week, we recognize the care our team provides every day and the way they support patients and each other,” said Chief Sara Johnston. “Paramedicine has evolved far beyond transporting patients. Today, our paramedics are highly skilled clinicians delivering care in complex and often unpredictable environments. What stands out most is the compassion they bring to every call. Behind each interaction is a person and a story that matters. I’m incredibly proud of our team and grateful for the care they provide to our community.”
Throughout the week, residents may see paramedics out in the community taking part in school visits, outreach activities, and recognition events celebrating local paramedic staff, including Celebrity Server Night.
One of the highlights of the week is the annual Celebrity Server Night at Boston Pizza (435 Kent St W, Lindsay) on Tuesday, May 19 from 6pm to 8pm.
Your favourite local emergency response “celebrities” will be taking over as servers for the evening, bringing the fun straight to your table. Expect good vibes, friendly competition, and maybe even a few surprise moments along the way.
10 percent of all proceeds from the evening will support BGC Kawarthas, so every bite helps make a difference in our community.
Learn more about Kawartha Lakes Paramedic Service and how to become a Paramedic at www.kawarthalakes.ca/paramedics
