Community first responders (CFRs) have received eight responder kits thanks to the Isle of Man Lions Club.
The kits, costing a total of £20,000, contain vital equipment such as an automated defibrillator to restart the heart, along with first aid equipment and practically everything needed in an emergency.
Recruited and trained by St John Ambulance, CFRs are despatched by the Ambulance and Paramedic Service to anyone who takes ill, often arriving ahead of an ambulance. There are 49 volunteers, who last year provided over 19,000 hours of emergency cover.
Gerry Jones, island co-ordinator for the CFRs, thanked the Lions Club, saying it meant that ‘more responders will have their own kit whereas before the Lions Club made their generous donation, a lot of responders had to pass on their kits at the end of their duty’.
Isle of Man Lions Club president Dennis Kneale said: ‘As a service organisation we are aware of just how much work the CFRs do for the benefit of the local community and we are very glad we could make this donation.’
To become a first responder contact Gerry Jones, 371298 or email gj88@hotmail.com