Automotive shop denies service to paramedic over virus fears

Photo: Jon Manchester

A Vernon paramedic was denied service at a local automotive shop over fears about the coronavirus.

This while B.C.'s frontline health-care workers are under added pressure during the COVID-19 pandemic – and are being cheered daily by most residents, who are thankful for their service.

Castanet has confirmed a tip that the paramedic was turned away without having a needed muffler replacement done.

The paramedic apparently found another shop willing to do the work, but was told the shop would not do muffler work on the vehicle unless it was "smelling strongly of bleach."

The paramedic was apparently also told there would be an additional charge "because he's a health-care worker," said the tipster.

"To tell the paramedic that if they did work, he would be charged extra because he's a health-care worker is unacceptable and fear mongering."

Castanet has reached out to BC Emergency Health Services, which is looking into the matter.