The number of threats directed at local ambulance staff is at an all time high. Last year there were 700 - compared to just 116 in 2011.
The South Western Ambulance Service, which has a call centre in Exeter, says both telephone handlers and paramedics out on the road are being subjected to verbal abuse and threats of physical violence.
The service says it takes a zero tolerance approach to this kind of behaviour and works with the police to try and get any physical assailants prosecuted.
It says staff are encouraged to report any incidents and are supported when they do happen.
However the ambulance service says no-one deserves to be threatened during their work, and is asking the public to treat its staff with the respect they deserve.
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