All Latvian NMPD Brigades Now Equipped with Bulletproof Vests and Helmets
The Latvian Emergency Medical Service (NMPD) has announced that all its brigades are now equipped with helmets and bulletproof vests, in response to geopolitical conditions and the need to protect medics during crises.
The NMPD has outfitted all its brigades with helmets and bulletproof vests to protect staff in crisis situations, as confirmed by the service's external communications manager, Miks Dūcis, after a meeting with union representatives. The specialized equipment was procured considering geopolitical risks and the necessity to ensure medic safety during potential threats.
The meeting also addressed other improvements in safety and working conditions. Union representatives were informed about the renewal of the service's material and technical base, including the purchase of 19 new operational medical vehicles. In the regions, new premises for brigades have been established in disaster management centers, and construction continues on three new brigade support centers. Last year, additional brigade points were set up in rapidly growing areas such as Jaunmārupe, Baloži, and Ropaži.
The service notes that response times are improving annually following changes in work organization. A new profession—operational medical vehicle driver and medical support person—was introduced last year, with 292 employees having completed the qualification and 70 more planned by year-end.
Discussions also covered the introduction of the paramedic profession in Latvia, which would adapt NMPD's work to modern security challenges, including potential military threats and drone use in conflicts. The NMPD highlighted recent amendments to the Criminal Law that impose stricter penalties for attacks on service personnel during duty.
The NMPD has collective agreements with several unions, including the Latvian Health and Social Care Workers' Union, the Latvian Public Service and Transport Workers' Union "Lakrs", the Latvian Railway and Transport Industry Workers' Union, and the Latvian Internal Affairs Employees' Union.
