A Desperate Knock on the Door
In a tragic event in Baltimore, a Department of Public Works (DPW) worker named Ronald Silver lost his life after collapsing on the job during an intensely hot day. The incident came to light when Gabrielle Avendano, a local resident, responded to a knock at her door. She was met by Silver, who appeared to be in severe distress, likely suffering from heat exhaustion due to the extreme temperatures that day.
Attempt to Provide Aid
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Avendano quickly ran to her kitchen to get water, hoping to help Silver. However, as she returned, she witnessed him collapse on the ground. Despite her efforts to get him to drink, Silver was too weak and requested help to sit up.
Avendano, who is significantly smaller than Silver, struggled to assist him alone. What made the situation more alarming was that Silver’s coworker, who was present at the scene, did not step in to help. Instead, he remained on the phone with DPW supervisors, leaving Avendano to handle the situation on her own.
Coworker’s Lack of Assistance
According to Avendano, the coworker informed her that Silver had been complaining of leg pain, chest pain, and an inability to unclench his hands throughout the day. Despite these serious symptoms, it appears that no immediate action was taken to address Silver’s health concerns.
This lack of response has raised significant questions about the protocols in place for DPW workers who may experience medical emergencies while on duty.
Efforts to Save Silver
As Silver lay on the ground, Avendano, along with three other women who arrived at the scene, attempted to help him. They managed to lift him off the stoop and lay him on the ground. When Silver stopped breathing, Avendano began performing CPR. Despite her desperate efforts, Silver’s coworker still did not offer any assistance, even though he was the only other person present.
City Authorities Respond
City authorities, including the Mayor and Acting DPW Director, have stated that they are currently working with the crew and medical professionals involved to fully understand what transpired. It has been confirmed that Silver was nearing the end of his workday in the Barlay neighborhood when he experienced the medical emergency that ultimately led to his death.
Heartbreaking Outcome
Avendano expressed profound sorrow and frustration over the lack of immediate assistance provided to Silver by his colleagues and supervisors. She was devastated to learn that Silver did not survive despite her efforts to save him. The incident has brought to light serious concerns about the working conditions and emergency response protocols for DPW workers, particularly in extreme weather conditions.
Extreme Heat Raises Concerns
On the day of the incident, temperatures in Baltimore reached triple digits, with an excessive heat warning in effect. Avendano highlighted the need for better care and consideration for DPW employees, especially in such hazardous conditions. She questioned why no one took action sooner and why supervisors did not instruct anyone to call 911 when Silver first showed signs of distress.
Calls for Accountability
As the investigation into Silver’s death continues, Avendano and other concerned citizens are demanding accountability. They believe that someone must be held responsible for the lack of timely intervention and are calling for changes to ensure that such a tragedy does not happen again.
A Wake-Up Call for Worker Safety
The death of Ronald Silver has cast a spotlight on the dangers faced by public service employees, particularly those working in extreme weather conditions. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of prompt and effective emergency response measures in protecting the lives of workers on the job.
The city of Baltimore now faces growing pressure to reevaluate its policies and ensure the safety and well-being of its employees.
