Home Of The Stanley Cup Champions

On Monday, June 19, 2006 the Carolina Hurricanes defeated the Edmonton Oilers 3-1 in Game 7 to win the Stanley Cup.

Wake County EMS provides Special Event coverage for the Carolina Hurricanes at all home games. In preparation for the Stanley Cup Finals, Wake County EMS increased its presence at the RBC Center to accommodate the pre-game activities.

"The NHL is not used to tailgating," stated Wake County EMS Chief Skip Kirkwood. "20 thousand people, our hot Carolina weather, and alcohol can cause serious problems," he added. Wake County EMS deployed additional ambulances, the bike team, and activated its tactical paramedics to assist the City of Raleigh's Special Operations Unit.

Dehydration was the major concern not only for the attendees, but for the scores of public safety officials on-scene. The RBC Center had set up several activities in the parking lot hours before game time. They also set up large screens so fans could watch the game from the parking lot.

After the win and ensuing celebration at the RBC Center, Wake County EMS had to relocate its resources to the Glenwood South area of Raleigh as the "Caniacs" decided to take to the streets for additional party going. “While several people were taken to the hospital, nothing of significance occurred,” Chief Kirkwood stated. “That’s a result of proper planning and execution by a lot of dedicated professionals.”

Several parades and gatherings occurred the days after the big win and Wake County EMS was providing medical care at each event.