Save lives by becoming a first responder (From Maldon and Burnham Standard)

Save lives by becoming a first responder

10:30am Friday 3rd July 2009

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VOLUNTEERS are needed to help save lives by becoming a first responder.

The Danbury, Bicknacre, Little Baddow, Woodham Mortimer and Woodham Walter First Responder Group needs help from community-spirited people who are willing to assist the ambulance service in those crucial first few minutes of an emergency.

First responders are people who live and work in local communities who can be activated by the East of England Ambulance Service to be on the scene quickly.

Volunteers take in turns being on call and carry basic first aid equipment and an automated defibrillator.

They are sent to the highest priority life threatening calls at the same time as an ambulance but often arrive first and can provide immediate emergency care.

Training is free and takes just two days at a weekend and almost anyone can be a responder.

Co-ordinator John Hopkins said: "The period of time between someone collapsing from cardiac arrest and being defibrillated is the single most important factor to their survival. Although it sounds like a dramatic scenario, with the correct training almost anyone has the potential to save a life.

“It’s an incredibly rewarding experience and something which demonstrates great community spirit."

For more information visit www.first-responders.org.uk or call 01245 224309.

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