​Rofhiwa Marubini 
To improve response times in Gauteng province, the Department of Health has unveiled a new fleet of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) vehicles on Wednesday.
The new 220 ambulances will capacitate response times for patients as the province prepares to battle with the fourth wave of COVID-19 infections.
The fleet will also address the high demand for emergency service during the festive season which in the past has seen increased motor vehicle accidents and assault cases.
The new fleet is equipped to provide intermediate life support and intensive care.
To beef up the emergency response team, 160 EMS personnel were recruited for Ekurhuleni and Johannesburg districts.
Health MEC Dr Nomahemba Mokgethi said the new fleet is a demonstration of the provincial government's commitment to serving the people of the province.
The MEC urged the public to work closely with EMS and stop the attacks on ambulances and their staff.
"As we enter the festive period, we call on our people to be careful on the roads. Not to drink and drive and take breaks if travelling long distances. 
"We are still in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, we urge the public to continue adhering to the non-pharmaceutical measures," added Mokgethi.