Samford residents have taken advantage of a Queensland Ambulance Service initiative and established a First Responders Group in support of their local community.
Launched in mid May 2003, the Group responds to medical emergencies in their area, provide life support to patients and communicate with Paramedics enroute to the scene.
To meet those responsibilities Group members have completed or renewed their Senior First Aid certificates, completed their Advanced Resuscitation and Automatic External Defibrillation courses and participate in ongoing training provided by QAS paramedics.
The Samford First Responders Group has also been provided with three trauma kits, oxygen therapy equipment, automatic defibrillators and communications equipment.
Located approximately 25 kilometres north west of Brisbane, Group members have already attended more than 40 incidents ranging from severe trauma to medical conditions.
Response teams are often first on scene and portable radios allow Group members to communicate directly with Paramedics to update them on the incident and if necessary, receive advice from QAS staff.
While the Queensland Ambulance Service doesn’t directly fund the Samford First Responders Group, they do provide extensive formal and on-the-job training and assistance with equipment.
QAS Commissioner Jim Higgins said he would like to establish ambulance stations in every Queensland centre but initiatives like the Samford Group provide a vital link for residents in growing towns.
“The Samford First Responders Group will help us save lives and foster the community spirit that the region is well known for,” Commissioner Higgins said.
“Group members are another great example of community spirit and
ingenuity in providing a valuable community service,” he said.
“Samford
residents and the QAS can be justifiably proud of their achievements and
commitment to their local community.”