FIREFIGHTERS in Grimsby will soon be saving "Lives" on their days off after volunteering to respond to medical emergencies.
A six-month pilot scheme has been launched which will see staff at Peaks Lane Fire Station man a Lives First Responder vehicle on their days off.
They will be trained to deal with life-threatening injuries and trauma in adults and children and will aim to arrive before ambulances.
It was the brainchild of long-serving firefighter and First Responder Harry Hall.
Harry, who is crew manager at Peaks Lane and has been a firefighter for 23 years, said: "I began volunteering for Lives 13 years ago and I know how stretched the ambulance service is and the difference First Responders can make.
"Firefighters are trained in trauma care but very few have practical experience of dealing with patients. This is a fantastic way for them to put their skills to use and help people in the community."
The firefighters will use a specially-adapted Skoda with blue lights to respond to emergencies.
Paul Benton, operations manager at Grimsby ambulance station, said: "Every second counts when it comes to life-threatening injuries and we are extremely grateful to the firefighters for volunteering their time."
A summary of Lincolnshire Integrated Voluntary Emergency Service Purpose: Working with other members of your local community First Responder Group to provide emergency pre-hospital care. Activities: First Responders are alerted by the ambulance service to attend patients with, for example, breathing difficulties, suspected cardiac arrest, collapse or chest pain within their community. First Responders will provide immediate Life Support (Basic Life Support with oxygen and defibrillation) in the vital first few minutes before the ambulance arrives. They may also be required to provide support and reassurance to relatives. They will work on a rota system with other members of the Group and be called out via mobile phone by text message. Skills Needed: Aged 18 or over Full, driving licence Carry a 20kg bag of equipment Be able to kneel and carry out Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) No previous experience is necessary as full comprehensive initial and ongoing training will be provided Application is subject to and enhanced CRB check and references To complete the LIVES training programme to attain the required level of competence To maintain the required level of competence by attending several local Group training sessions and a short local requalification annually Desirable Characteristics: Ability to remain calm under pressure Ability to work as part of a team Benefits: Gain experience and learn new skills Be part of a team Benefit the community Gain a sense of fulfilment and achievement Timeframe: First Responder volunteers work on a rota system within local groups and give as much or as little time as they can. Volunteers are asked to meet their rota commitments as agreed within the Group or to give reasonable notice so other arrangements can be made. They are also required to attend Group meetings and training sessions regularly. Even when you are 'on duty' you will be able to do many of the things you already do without affecting your ability to respond when needed. Find out more If you are interested in becoming a first responder, call the headquarters on 01507 525999 or visit www.lives.org.uk
