When an emergency happens, Halton paramedics answer the call without hesitation. They often work in unpredictable and high-pressure situations, provide lifesaving care, and are there for people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
But while they’re focused on helping others, they can face violence, abuse, harassment and assault while at work. Being threatened, verbally abused, or assaulted should never be normalized as "part of the job”.
How often is this happening?
In 2025, 274 incidents of violence and abuse were reported by Halton paramedics while providing care in our community. Of those incidents, 5 were considered for potential criminal charges, and 1 resulted in the offender being charged and convicted.
Behind every number is a person who was simply doing their job. Even one incident of violence, abuse, harassment, or assault towards a paramedic is unacceptable.
These incidents have a lasting impact.
Repeated violent encounters can take a toll on the mental health and well-being of Halton paramedics. This strain can impact long-term health and can result in anxiety, post-traumatic stress injury, and fear for their personal safety while on and off-duty. For some paramedics, this impact doesn’t end when their shift does – it can impact them outside of work and affect their family and personal life.
How we’re working to protect Halton Paramedics
We have a zero-tolerance policy for violence directed at paramedics.
To help encourage paramedics to report these incidents and reduce stigma, all Halton paramedics receive education in collaboration with Halton Regional Police Service that focuses on:
- Recognizing and responding to aggressive behaviour
- Understanding reporting options
- Learning when and how incidents may be escalated for potential criminal charges
- Reinforcing that violence and abuse are never “just part of the job”
In 2025, all paramedics also completed a stress-exposure training program designed to strengthen responder safety. Through realistic scenario-based learning, paramedics developed advanced situational awareness skills and practical strategies to identify, mitigate, and manage a wide range of potentially violent or escalating situations. After training, most paramedics reported that they felt better prepared and empowered to handle violent situations.
Resources available to Halton Paramedics
When violence or abuse occurs, Halton paramedics have access to several forms of support:
- Exit the scene and request assistance from Halton Regional Police Service and/or a Paramedic Superintendent and potentially pursue criminal charges.
- Report the incident through the External Violence Against Paramedics program.
- Contact our Peer Support Team, a group of peers who provide support during stressful calls or situations.
- Access mental health supports through our Employee Family Assistance Program, and from a clinical psychologist.
We all have a role to play
Everyone deserves to feel safe at work. Please join us in reinforcing that violence and abuse are not part of the job. By sharing this message, we can all help raise awareness of this issue and help create a safer environment for paramedics who show up when we need them most.