This Blog was posted on 03/10/2026
As winter begins to melt into spring, yay! We are reflecting on the incredible work our crews, educators, dispatchers, and community partners accomplished over the past few months. Winter in Northwestern Pennsylvania brings challenges, as we all know. From icy roads to freezing temperatures, but thanks to your support, EmergyCare was there when our neighbors needed us most.
1. Responding to High Call Volumes During Peak Winter Weather
This winter brought harsh freeze–thaw cycles, snowy and/or slippery roadways, and sudden temperature drops. Our teams worked around the clock to support all the residents in need within the seven counties we serve.
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Total winter calls: 9,155
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Notable surge days: 01/06 and 01/27 with 167 requests on each day
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Photo/crew spotlight:
2. Supporting Patients Through Cold‑Weather Medical Emergencies
Winter months often bring increases in respiratory issues, slips and falls, and cardiac-related emergencies. EmergyCare crews provide rapid, compassionate care to patients experiencing some of the most common seasonal health concerns.
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Increase in slip/fall injuries: No increase from the previous quarter
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Number of respiratory/distress calls: 1,017, which is a 15% increase from the previous quarter
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With warmer temperatures arriving, the ice on Lake Erie is melting quickly and becoming increasingly unstable. Water rescue teams along the lakeshore are urging everyone to stay off the ice, as thickness is now inconsistent and rapidly changing due to thawing conditions.
3. Partnering with Local Agencies to Keep the Community Safe
Collaboration is a core part of our mission. This winter, EmergyCare partnered with local fire departments, police, emergency management teams, and hospital systems to coordinate care during winter storms and regional incidents.
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Partnerships with Erie Fire and Police Departments, UPMC Hamot, AHN Saint Vincent, Overdose Task Force, and other community leaders.
4. Training the Next Generation of EMS and Community Responders
Education remained a top priority—even with winter weather disruptions. Our training center continued offering EMT courses, CPR/First Aid classes, and Stop the Bleed sessions.
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Number of students in winter EMT class: 10
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Community members trained in CPR: 7
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Family Services of NWPA Career Presentation, Mercyhurst University PA Program BLS & ACLS Training, LECOM Med Students, Gannon OT Students, and McKean Elementary School Educational Programs
5. Spreading Holiday Cheer and Community Support
The winter season is about the community, and EmergyCare was proud to participate in local events and outreach efforts.
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“Shop with a Hero,” Stuffed Animals and Socks Drive, EmergyCare Holiday Party, and school visits
Looking Ahead to Spring
As we leave winter behind, one thing remains unchanged: EmergyCare’s commitment to providing high‑quality, compassionate care—24/7, 365 days a year. Warmer weather brings new opportunities to engage, educate, and support our community, and we are excited for everything the coming months will bring.
???? Interested in partnering with us this spring? Contact our Community Development team at 814-870-1948!