AUSTIN -- Austin-Travis County EMS were kept busy Wednesday evening and early Thursday morning for the SXSW festivities in downtown Austin.
During the 12-hour reporting period that began at 3 p.m. Wednesday, EMS responded to 33 incidents and transported 20 patients to several local hospitals.
Incidents included several vehicle crashes, an auto–bicycle crash, traumatic injuries, medical complaints including reports of unconscious patients, and several patients with alcohol-related complaints.
ATCEMS said nine additional EMS paramedic personnel staffed motorcycles and utility type vehicles to provide additional coverage to congested areas.
Paramedics report that the crowds began to disperse quickly at 3 a.m.
Additional EMS coverage will be in place for the duration of the SXSW festivities, with specific emphasis on nighttime and weekend coverage.
