Month: April 2013

Monday 29th April 2013 – 6.05pm – Murray MacGregor.

A woman horse rider has been airlifted to hospital after coming off her mount and being stood on by the horse.

The incident happened just before 4.30pm on Monday afternoon just outside the village of Drayton in Worcestershire. The location was on a bridleway opposite Drayton Pool near the Robin Hood Pub.

A paramedic in a rapid response vehicle was shown to the scene by passers by. She was backed up by an ambulance and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The ambulance staff were told that the woman had been thrown from the horse which then stood on the 47 year old a couple of times.

“She was complaining of neck and back pain but was fully conscious. She was given pain relief and was immobilised using a neck collar and scoop stretcher.

“The woman was then airlifted to the Major Trauma Centre at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham as a precaution.”

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Monday 29th April 2013 – 6.05pm – John Hawker.

A woman has died and a man has been injured following an RTC on the M42 motorway this afternoon.

The crash occurred on the west bound carriageway, near junction 3a, at around 2.40pm. An ambulance, two rapid response vehicles, a paramedic officer and the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a 4×4 vehicle that had left the motorway, been in collision with a fence and come to rest in a field some distance away.

“Unfortunately, it quickly became apparent that nothing could be done to save a woman passenger in the vehicle, and she was confirmed dead at the scene.

“The man driving the vehicle was treated at the scene for multiple minor injuries and the effects of shock. He was airlifted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham for further emergency treatment.”

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Monday 29th April 12.15pm – Chris Kowalik.

More than 15,000 schoolpupils have been taught essential lifesaving skills as part of an educational campaign by Herefordshire HeartStart supported by West Midlands Ambulance Service.

The charity, in conjunction with the British Heart Foundation, was officially launched in 1996 and set out to teach thousands of people a variety of techniques including CPR. In 2004 it began a scheme to target schools.

Since 2004, the charity has trained 455 teachers to become Heartstart instructors for them to pass on their knowledge to their pupils. A high percentage of schools in Herefordshire now deliver the HeartStart course with more than 3,000 pupils receiving training in 2011.

Loraine Coleman, Herefordshire HeartStart Co-ordinator/Project Manager, said: “I would like to see all schools in Herefordshire involved in this incredible scheme. The British Heart Foundation are currently still funding the schools project in Herefordshire, they provide the Free Training for Schools staff, they fund the venue and training (i.e. at no cost to the school). For new schools joining the scheme, the British Heart Foundation will pay for replacement cover for those staff attending training. Once a school affiliates to the scheme, they are provided with all of the equipment and training resources, i.e. Resusci-Anne manikins, training manual, DVD and hand-outs for the pupils, all at no cost to the school.

“It really is a win-win for the schools. They get to deliver the Heartstart skills at no cost to themselves, the pupils benefit by learning these vital lifesaving skills and can then potentially save a life in their community.”

The instructor training course runs for a full day and enables teachers to teach HeartStart to their pupils. Refresher courses for school staff are also offered to ensure they teach to the national standards and implement any new guidelines.

Anyone who doesn’t want to become an instructor but who still wants to be taught basic lifesaving skills is welcome to sign up for Herefordshire HeartStart’s free two-hour course. Anyone aged 10 or over is welcome. You’ll learn the skills of detecting the symptoms of a heart attack, delivering CPR and dealing with choking, loss of consciousness or serious blood loss.

Loraine added: “If you have children at a school in Herefordshire, why not check to see if they are part of the HeartStart scheme. If they’re not, then please encourage them to join.”

For more information or to book a course, visit http://www.herefordshireheartstart.org or email info@herefordshireheartstart.co.uk or contact the Co-ordinator/Project Manager Loraine Coleman on 0845 60 60 654.

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Note to Editors: Pictured – HeartStart course delivered at Broadlands Primary School, February 2013

Monday 29^th April 2013 – 11.00am – Suzie Fothergill.

On Tuesday evening (23^rd April) Chesterton Community Sports College held a fun filled evening consisting of a charity auction, raffle, quiz, live entertainment and refreshments all in a bid to raise vital funds to purchase a life-saving defibrillator for the school.

Chris Helm, Head of Science has been at the forefront of the defibrillator fundraising campaign after he saw the importance of such a piece of equipment first hand. Unfortunately, last year Chris’ four year old daughter, Leilah became critically ill at their family home in Northwich, Cheshire. Thanks to the family’s quick actions in undertaking CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and the fast arrival of an ambulance crew with a defib, Leilah, whose heart had gone into an abnormal rhythm, was saved! 

The school that Chris works at recognised the importance of installing such a piece of equipment on site and the staff and pupils have all rallied round to help raise the funds. The fundraising event proved to be a massive success and managed to raise £2,100; more than enough to buy a defibrillator!

Alongside the fundraising, Chris Helm and five other staff members at the sports college have undertaken HeartStart instructor training and have since taught basic life support techniques, including CPR, to more than 400 pupils at the school.

Talking about the fundraising, Chris Helm said: “We are really pleased with the final amount raised.  I would like to thank everyone who donated prizes and a massive thanks to all the staff who got involved and helped make the night such a great success.  It was great to have the ambulance and fire engine here it really helped to raise the profile of the event.   

“We will deliver the HeartStart course to every pupil again next year, hopefully with the added benefit of defibrillator training too.”

West Midlands Ambulance Service Paramedic, Victoria Tufail who trained the staff in the HeartStart course attended the event in support. She said: “West Midlands Ambulance Service strongly believes that by having defibrillators installed in public places, such as schools and business premises, and having people trained in their use, helps to ensure that the best care possible can be provided quickly and effectively, should anyone ever unfortunately suffer a cardiac arrest.

“Getting schools involved in such projects is vital and provides the opportunity for all children to learn essential vital life-saving skills at a young age. West Midlands Ambulance Service has now helped to train over 4,000 school pupils in the BHF’s HeartStart course which is excellent news. 

“Chris and all the team at the school have done an amazing job raising awareness of the importance of basic life support and defibrillators and have had fun at the same time. The evening event was thoroughly enjoyed by all.”

Staff, pupils, parents, West Midlands Ambulance Service, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service and the British Heart Foundation representatives all turned out in force to help support the event.

For more information about HeartStart or to  book on to a free HeartStart course please visit http://www.wmas.nhs.uk/Pages/HeartStart.aspx or contact the team via heartstartstaffordshire@wmas.nhs.uk or call 01785 23734.

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Picture one: WMAs Paramedics with pupils Trudie Montford (left) and Megan Barber (right).

Picture two: Chris (holding the defib) pictured with school staff and representatives from West Midlands Ambulance Service, the British Heart Foundation and Staffordshire fire and Rescue Service.

  

Sunday 28^th April 2013 – 5.05pm – Chris Kowalik.

A man has been taken to hospital after the car he was driving collided with a single decker bus in south Staffordshire.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Billy Burns Lane, Wombourne shortly before 2.10pm today.

A paramedic area support officer in a rapid response vehicle and two ambulance crews attended. Staffordshire Fire and Rescue service also attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Fire crews assisted ambulance crews in releasing the trapped driver, a man in his fifties, from his car. He was immobilised and given pain relief before being transported to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham. His wife, who was a passenger in the car, suffered minor injuries and travelled to hospital with him.

“Two people on the bus were assessed and discharged at the scene.”

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Saturday 27th April 2013 – 9.35am – Chris Kowalik.

A man has been seriously injured in a road traffic collision in West Bromwich.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called shortly after 9.40pm last night (Friday) to reports of a collision involving a car and a pedestrian in Black Lake.

A paramedic from the Hazardous Area Response Team attended along with a paramedic area support officer, the MERIT (Medical Emergency Response Incident Team) trauma team, the West Midlands CARE Team and an ambulance crew.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “A man in his twenties had suffered head injuries and numerous limb injuries.

“His injured limbs were splinted and he was fully immobilised before being transferred to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.”

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Note to Editors:
The West Midlands Central Accident Resuscitation & Emergency (CARE) team is a group of approx. 60 volunteer Doctors and Nurses who provide a medical team in support of the West Midlands Ambulance Service. Each team consists of a Doctor, Nurse, WMAS Incident Officer and a Trainee. The team is able to offer advanced surgical intervention, airway and equipment support. The CARE Team was formed in 1990 and is affiliated with the British Association for Immediate Care (BASICS). The Scheme is funded entirely by charitable donations and is a registered charity number 1129027.

Friday 26th April 2013 – 3.00pm – Claire Brown.

A man is in a critical condition in hospital after suffering a cardiac arrest in Coventry.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a man who had collapsed whilst crossing Kirby Corner Road near Tesco, Canley, shortly before midday today (Friday). An ambulance, an advanced paramedic, a paramedic area support officer attended together with two doctors and a paramedic from Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance’s airbase who responded by car.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The advanced paramedic arrived first on scene within three minutes of the 999 call and found a man, believed to be in his 50s, in cardiac arrest on a pedestrian refuge in the middle of the road.

“The paramedic immediately commenced CPR and was quickly joined by colleagues to continue advanced life support. After several minutes of resuscitation efforts, the man’s heart began to beat and he started breathing again. The crews and medics continued emergency treatment to stabilise his condition before he was taken by land ambulance on blue lights to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire. A doctor travelled in the ambulance with the man to continue treatment en route.

“Medics were pre alerted to the arrival of the man who was said to be in a critical condition.”

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Friday 26th April 2013 – 11.55am – Claire Brown.

A man has died in a road traffic collision in the Black Country this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service received a 999 call to reports of a collision between a pedestrian and a car near to the Merry Hill Shopping Centre on Pedmore Road, Brierley Hill at 6.45am (Friday).

An ambulance, a responder paramedic and a MERIT trauma doctor attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “When crews arrived they found an unconscious man with a significant head injury being cared for by passers-by including two off duty nurses and a police officer.

“Crews and the doctor began treating the man to stabilise him but his condition quickly deteriorated and he went into cardiac arrest. The team of medics started advanced life support, administering CPR in an attempt to restart his heart.

“Sadly, despite their best efforts, nothing could be done to save the man and he was confirmed dead a short time later.”

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Friday 26th April 2013 – 11.30am – Claire Brown.

A pedestrian has been taken to hospital in a serious condition after a road traffic collision in Coventry this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to outside the church on Baginton Road shortly after 8.30am earlier today (Friday).

An ambulance, a paramedic area support officer, an emergency care practitioner and an advanced paramedic attended together with two doctors and a paramedic from Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance’s airbase who responded by car.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “When crews arrived they found a pedestrian, a man believed to be in his 60s, lying on the floor.

“Crews and the doctors assessed the man and found he had suffered a serious head injury together with chest and suspected pelvic injuries. Due to the nature of his injuries, the doctors decided to sedate him at the scene to stabilise his condition.

“The man was fully immobilised before being conveyed by land ambulance on blue lights and sirens to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire. Medics were pre-alerted to the arrival of the man who, upon arrival, was said to be in a critical condition.”

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Thursday 25^th April 2013 – 4.30pm – John Hawker.

A charity car wash is taking place at Leamington Rugby Club this Saturday to raise money for new kit for the local Warwick District Community First Responders. 

The event will take place between 12pm and 5pm with 10 volunteers ready willing and able to give your vehicle a good scrub. 

All funds will go towards new uniforms and equipment for the group so pop along and make a donation to a great cause and get a clean car thrown in as well.

CFRs are everyday members of the public who are trained in lifesaving techniques including the use of a defibrillator, a device used to restart the heart of someone who has suffered a cardiac arrest. Their availability, close proximity and local knowledge of the area are among their many assets.

CFRs will be called by the ambulance service’s control room to medical emergencies in their area while an ambulance is en-route. They are vital in life-threatening situations, particularly in the case of a cardiac arrest, stroke and trauma when every minute counts.

The groups twitter feed is @CFRsWarwick  

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Picture of Warwick District CFR group. 

Thursday 25^th April – 12.30pm – Suzie Fothergill.

A paramedic from West Midlands Ambulance Service has completed the first half of his double marathon challenge in a bid to raise funds for Diabetes UK.

Matt Turvey, who is based at Stoke Ambulance Station, completed the London Marathon on Sunday in 5 hours and 36 minutes and is now gearing up for his second marathon, which will take place in Manchester this Sunday, just one week later!

Matt decided to raise money for diabetes UK on discovering a former colleague’s son, Harry, had been diagnosed with type one diabetes.

Matt said: “Harry, who is only five years of age, is in the same class as my daughter at St. Luke’s Primary School in Endon. 

“For Harry, having type one diabetes means his immune system attacks and destroys the cells that produce insulin. Insulin helps our bodies use glucose which gives us energy. Unfortunately at present the cause of this condition is unknown and as yet there is still no cure. This means that Harry is now insulin dependent for the rest of his life.

“Harry can have six or more insulin injections and finger pricks, to check his glucose level, each day. Even though Harry is subjected to such invasive procedures he does not cry or moan he simply accepts that this is a part of his life and continues to live it to the full. He is truly an inspiration and I am proud to be supporting such a worthwhile charity.”

As a paramedic, Matt is often called to emergencies that are diabetic related and he repeatedly sees the effects that the condition can have on patients.

Matt, who also held a fundraising entertainment evening in February, has so far managed to raise a massive £1,283 towards his target of £2,000.

If you would like to support Matt in his challenge and help raise funds to allow Diabetes UK continue with their research and provide help to children like Harry please visit his just giving page via www.justgiving.com/MrTurvey.

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Picture 1: Matt Turvey

Picture 2: Matt running past Big Ben at mile 25 of the London Marathon

Picture 3: Matt pictured with his daughter Molly following the event.

Thursday 25^th April 2013 – 7.40am – Chris Kowalik.

A man has died and three people have been taken to hospital following a collision involving two cars in Walsall.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Lichfield Road at 10.20pm last night (Wednesday).

A paramedic area support officer in a rapid response vehicle, the MERIT trauma team of a doctor and a critical care practitioner, the Hazardous Area Response Team and three ambulance crews attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “There were two people in each car.

“A man was confirmed dead at the scene. A woman who was in the same car had leg injuries. She was immobilised and was taken to New Cross Hospital.

“A mother and daughter from the other vehicle both had internal injuries. They were both immobilised and were taken to Walsall Manor Hospital.”

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Wednesday 24^th April 2013 – 7pm – Chris Kowalik.

A man has been taken to hospital after suffering a cardiac arrest at Sutton Coldfield Golf Club.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the 16^th hole at 3.50pm today.

Two rapid response vehicles, one driven by a paramedic area support officer, attended along with an ambulance crew and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “CPR was already being done on the man when crews arrived.
“Crews took over and got him into the land ambulance which had managed to be driven onto the 16^th fairway.
“The man, who is in his seventies, was then taken to Good Hope Hospital. At the time of arrival at hospital, he had been resuscitated.

“This is why 999 and the ambulance service is here; for those genuine emergencies where every minute counts.”

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Note to Editors: We cannot give further condition checks

Tuesday 23rd April 2013 – 9.22pm – Murray MacGregor.

Ambulance bosses are calling on children and drivers to remember each other after two young children were taken to hospital after separate incidents within half an hour of each other.

The collisions in Sutton Coldfield and Worcestershire saw the youngsters taken to hospital after collisions with cars.

The first incident took place near the Asda in Walmley Ash Road, Minworth at 3.25pm on Tuesday afternoon.

A girl of about 11 years was in collision with a car. An off duty paramedic came across the incident very soon after it happened and stayed with the girl until an ambulance and a rapid response vehicle arrived.

She had suffered a head injury and possible broken leg and was taken to Good Hope Hospital.

The second incident happened at the junction of Shrubbery Road and Stonebow Road in the village of Drakes Broughton at 3.50pm on Tuesday afternoon.

This time a young boy of about the same age suffered ankle and leg injuries. The ambulance that attended took him to Worcestershire Royal Hospital for further assessment and treatment.

WMAS Director of Nursing and Quality, Sandy Brown, said: “Sadly, these two incidents and the very serious incident in Wednesbury today (Tuesday), show just how important it is that we all take responsibility for the safety of each other.

“If you are a parent, please take the time to talk to your children about making sure they go to school safely and area aware of vehicles when they are playing outside.

“There are some excellent materials available to assist you from the likes of the RoSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) and the ‘Think!’ campaign from the Government.

“Equally, if you are a driver, please be especially mindful of children being about at the beginning and end of the school day. The reality is that some youngsters do walk out from between parked cars without a care in the world which can have tragic consequences.

“If everyone looks out for each other, then there is a better chance that we as an ambulance service will have fewer incidents such as those above to deal with.”

For more information have a look at the following websites:

http://think.direct.gov.uk/
http://www.rospa.com

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Tuesday 23rd April 2013 – 8.40pm – Murray MacGregor.

Evening commuters faced long delays after the southbound M6 at Great Barr was shut on Tuesday evening after a crash involving a car and a motorcycle.

The collision happened at about 5.55pm between junctions 8 and 7.

Two ambulances and a paramedic officer were sent to the scene. The Midlands Air Ambulance from Staffordshire was also dispatched after initial concerns that the motorcyclist had suffered serious injuries.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, crews found a car that had suffered a significant rear end impact and a motorcycle that was badly damaged.

“The rider, a 44 year old man, had suffered facial injuries but thankfully, these turned out not to be as bad as the level of damage might have suggested.

“He was taken by land ambulance to Sandwell Hospital for further assessment and treatment.

“The driver of the car initially felt ill and was going to be taken to hospital but then recovered enough to be discharged.

“Due to overhead power lines at the scene, the Midlands Air Ambulance was not able to land at the scene and initially set down at the Holiday Inn at Junction 7 but was in the end not required.”

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Tuesday 23rd April 2013 – 7.55pm – Murray MacGregor.

A man has been airlifted to a Major Trauma Centre after being trapped inside the wreckage of a car for almost an hour.

The crash happened in Illey Lane in Frankley at around 5.30pm on Tuesday afternoon.

A rapid response vehicle was first on scene and was backed up by an ambulance, a senior paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Both cars involved had suffered very significant front end damage.

“There were two men in one car and one in the other. One of the men from the first car and the driver of the second car had suffered on cuts bumps and bruising. They were taken by land ambulance to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham for further assessment.

“A 29 year old man from the first car was trapped for about 50 minutes. A critical care paramedic from the air ambulance gave the man sedation so that he could be extracted from the wreckage. He had suffered two broken legs, possible fractures to his pelvis and right arm and had potential back injuries.

“He was immobilised using a neck collar, spinal board, and splints before being airlifted to the same hospital.”

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Tuesday 23rd April 2013 – 7.55pm – Murray MacGregor.

Two children have been airlifted to hospital, one in a critical condition after they were in collision with a van in the Black Country.

The crash happened on High Bullen, Wednesbury, about 200 yards from the roundabout near the bus station on the road towards the M6 at just before 5.15pm on Tuesday afternoon.

Three ambulances a paramedic officer and two air ambulances were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “When crews arrived they found two boys who were approximately 10 years old who had been in collision with a van.

“One had suffered a severe head injury. He was anaesthetised at the scene by the trauma doctor from the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford before being airlifted to Birmingham Children’s Hospital in a critical condition.

“The second child had suffered multiple abrasions. Given the nature of the collision, the doctor on the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance elected to airlift him to the same hospital.

“The driver of the van was uninjured.

“Both children received high levels of care and treatment at the scene from ambulance staff and doctors to stabilise their conditions before they were flown to the regions specialist paediatric trauma centre.”

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Monday 22nd April 2013 – 4.50pm – John Hawker.

A woman has been seriously injured after being in collision with a bus in Birmingham this morning.

The incident occurred near the Junction of Church Road and Bristol Road, Northfield, at around 10.30am. 

Two ambulances, a rapid response vehicle, and a paramedic officer attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a woman being treated by an off duty member of WMAS Patient Transport Services staff who had come across the incident and stopped to help.

“The woman, believed to be in her 60’s, suffered a serious head injury.  She received emergency treatment at the scene and was transferred by land ambulance to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for further emergency treatment.

“Whilst at the scene, a passer-by was taken ill and also needed to be treated by ambulance crews.  The woman, believed to be in her 30’s, and not involved in the RTC, was transferred by a land ambulance to the same hospital for further treatment.”

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We have no further details on this incident. 

Monday 22^nd April 2013 – 10.25am – Chris Kowalik.

An ambulance station in Warwickshire is about to be put up for sale as part of West Midlands Ambulance Service’s ‘Make Ready’ plans.

The Make Ready programme will see the creation of two 24/7 fleet maintenance hubs where dedicated teams of Ambulance Fleet Assistants prepare, service and maintain the fleet of ambulances. The hubs are currently being built in Ibstock Road, Coventry and in Tournament Fields, Warwick.

Most of Warwickshire’s remaining traditionally owned ambulance stations are due to be sold and replaced by a new network of Community Ambulance Stations which will be leased rather than owned. The new stations will be lower maintenance with resultant lower running costs and will be greater in number.

The following station is due to be advertised as for sale:

Dordon ambulance station, Watling Street, Dordon B78 1TE – offers invited in the region of £475,000. Alternative provision is being planned; details of which will be announced in due course. The current station will not be vacated until new premises have been established.

‘Make Ready’ was implemented by the former Staffordshire Ambulance Service fifteen years ago, making it one of the most successful ambulance services with some of the fastest response times in England.

The aim of the hubs is to cut down on ambulance crew ‘downtime’; time when the crew are dealing with issues such as cleaning their vehicle or restocking – time when they are not able to respond to medical emergencies.

‘Make Ready’ is also proven to significantly reduce the waste of out-of-date drugs and supplies.  It also reduces spending on aged and expensive ambulance station buildings. The money saved is channelled into frontline ambulance provision.

The ‘Make Ready’ system will be fully in place later this year.

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Monday 22^nd April 2013 – 10.25am – Chris Kowalik.

An ambulance station in Shropshire is about to be put up for sale as part of West Midlands Ambulance Service’s ‘Make Ready’ plans.

The Make Ready programme has seen the creation of two 24/7 fleet maintenance hubs where dedicated teams of Ambulance Fleet Assistants prepare, service and maintain the fleet of ambulances. The hubs are based at Abella Business Park, Shrewsbury and in Wrekin Drive, Donnington.

The hubs serve a new network of Community Ambulance Stations. The new Community Ambulance Stations have replaced the traditionally owned ambulance stations in the county, are lower maintenance and therefore have lower running costs.

Consequently, Craven Arms ambulance station is due to be advertised as for sale:

Craven Arms ambulance station, Ludlow Road, Craven Arms – offers invited in the region of £200,000.

As part of a sale of Craven Arms ambulance station, West Midlands Ambulance Service would wish to retain a small part of the site for use as a small Community Ambulance Station.

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Monday 22^nd April 2013 – 10.30am – Chris Kowalik.

Five ambulance stations in Birmingham (incorporating the borough of Solihull) are to be put up for sale as part of West Midlands Ambulance Service’s ‘Make Ready’ plans.

The Make Ready programme involves the creation of 24/7 fleet maintenance hubs where dedicated teams of Ambulance Fleet Assistants prepare, service and maintain the fleet of ambulances. Oncoming ambulance crews collect their ‘made-ready’ vehicle and go to any of a new network of more than thirty Community Ambulance Stations from where they respond to 999 calls.

The hubs will be based at:

Opus Aspect, Chester Road, Erdington,

Hollymoor Point, Hollymoor Way, Northfield

and in West Bromwich.

Hubs in Erdington and Northfield are currently being constructed. A hub is already in operation in West Bromwich following the refurbishment of the town’s ambulance station in Hargate Lane.

The hubs serve a new network of Community Ambulance Stations which are leased rather than owned. The new Community Ambulance Stations are replacing some of the traditionally owned ambulance stations, are lower maintenance and therefore have lower running costs. When completed, the number of Community Ambulance Stations will be more than three-times that of traditionally owned stations to ensure a faster response to 999 calls.

Consequently, five traditionally owned ambulance stations in Birmingham (incorporating the borough of Solihull) are due to be advertised as for sale:

Chelmsley Wood ambulance station, Waterloo Avenue, Chelmsley Wood B39 6RE – offers invited in the region of £380,000

Hobmoor Road ambulance station, Hobmoor Road, Small Heath, Birmingham B10 9BU – offers invited in the region of £375,000

Monyhull ambulance station, Monyhull Hall Road, Kings Heath, Birmingham B30 3QJ – offers invited in the region of £330,000

Solihull ambulance station, Hermitage Road, Solihull B91 2LL – offers invited in the region of £450,000

Sutton Coldfield ambulance station, Shooters Hill, Sutton Coldfield B72 1HX – offers invited in the region of £350,000.

‘Make Ready’ was implemented by the former Staffordshire Ambulance Service fifteen years ago, making it one of the most successful ambulance services with some of the fastest response times in England.

The aim of the hubs is to cut down on ambulance crew ‘downtime’; time when the crew are dealing with issues such as cleaning their vehicle or restocking – time when they are not able to respond to medical emergencies.

‘Make Ready’ is also proven to significantly reduce the waste of out-of-date drugs and supplies.  It also reduces spending on aged and expensive ambulance station buildings. The money saved is channelled into frontline ambulance provision.

The ‘Make Ready’ system will be fully in place in Birmingham later this year.

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Sunday 21^st April 2013 – 7.30pm – Claire Brown.

A man and a woman have died in a road traffic collision in Shrewsbury this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the A458 Welshpool Road near to the Windmill Inn, Halfway House at around 12.20pm earlier today (Sunday). Three ambulances and a paramedic area support officer attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “When crews arrived they found a motorcycle and car which had been involved in a significant collision.

“Sadly it quickly became apparent to crews that nothing could be done to save the two riders of the motorcycle, a man and a woman, and they were confirmed dead on scene.

“The three occupants of the car, two women and a man, sustained minor injuries. All three were assessed on scene, one woman was immobilised as a precaution, before they were taken to Royal Shrewsbury Hospital.”

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Sunday 21^st April 2013 – 7.00pm – Claire Brown.

Two women have been taken to hospital after they were injured whilst walking in Shropshire this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to an area of The Wrekin, off Spout Lane, Little Wenlock, shortly before midday today (Sunday). An off duty community first responder came across the two injured women and administered first aid until two ambulances, Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) paramedics and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford with a doctor on board attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The two women, believed to be in their 50s, had been out walking with a group of people when both reportedly fell.

“Due to the location of the women on the hill, the air ambulance had to land ½ a mile away and walk the rest of the way on foot. Land crews, unable to drive to the location, also made their way up the steep hill on foot.

“One woman suffered a fractured lower leg whilst the other had a suspected fractured ankle. Crews administered pain relief to the women before they were fully immobilised in a specialist fabric integrated body stretcher, designed to be easy to carry across difficult terrain.

“The crews then carried the women part way down the hill to HART’s six-wheeled all-terrain POLARIS vehicle which conveyed the woman, in turn, the rest of the way down a steep track to the awaiting ambulances.

“Both women were then taken by land ambulance to Princess Royal Hospital for further treatment almost four hours after the initial 999 call.

“The steep and inaccessible location meant this was a difficult and protracted case for crews however, their team work ensured the women received the best pre-hospital treatment and were rescued safely.”

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Pictured: HART paramedic treating one woman on The Wrekin.

 

 

 

 

Saturday 20^th April 2013 – 7.20pm – Claire Brown.

A girl has been airlifted to hospital after falling from a rope swing in Shropshire.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to a property in Stoke on Tern, Market Drayton, shortly before 12.30pm this afternoon (Saturday). An ambulance, a responder paramedic and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford with a doctor on board attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The 12 year old girl had reportedly fallen from a rope swing onto grass and had sustained a fractured leg in the fall.

“Crews and the medic quickly administered pain relief to stabilise her condition and make her more comfortable before fully immobilising her with a neck collar, spinal board and leg splint.

“Due to the location of the incident and the distance from road access, the air ambulance attended to convey the girl to Princess Royal Hospital for further treatment.”

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Saturday 20^th April 2013 – 7.00pm – Claire Brown.

A woman has been airlifted to hospital following a collision between a motorcycle and a van in Shifnal today.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Aston Road at 11.20am this morning (Saturday). An ambulance, a paramedic area support officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford with a doctor on board attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find a motorcyclist and van which had been in collision. The motorcyclist, a woman in her 20s, suffered a serious leg injury.

“Crews and the doctor gave the woman pain relief before immobilising her with a neck collar, spinal board and leg splint before she was airlifted to Royal Shrewsbury Hospital for further assessment and treatment.

“No one else was injured in the crash.”

Ends

 

 

Thursday 18^th April 2013 – 8.30pm – Claire Brown.

One man has died and five others have been injured in a two car road traffic collision in Warwick.

The incident happened on the A429 in Barford shortly before 5.00pm this afternoon (Thursday). Four ambulances, a paramedic area support officer, two senior paramedic officers, a BASICS doctor and the Midlands Air Ambulances from Cosford and Strensham were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find two cars which had been involved in a significant collision.

“One car had left the road and was down an embankment. Sadly it quickly became apparent to ambulance crews that nothing could be done to save the single occupant of the car, a man, and he was confirmed dead on scene.

“Five occupants from the second car involved suffered varying injuries and all needed treatment. The most seriously injured, a man in his 40s, sustained injuries to his face, neck, back, abdomen and legs. He was given pain relief and fully immobilised with a neck collar and spinal board before being airlifted to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire for further emergency treatment.

“A 38 year old man sustained a head injury and a suspected abdominal injury and a 52 year old man suffered back, neck, shoulder and knee injuries. Crews immobilised both men and stabilised their conditions on scene before they were taken by land ambulance on blue lights to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire.

“A 42 year old man was treated on scene by crews for cuts, bruises and knee and back injuries. The fifth occupant, a 32 year old man had reportedly been knocked unconscious prior to crews arriving and had neck pain and a leg injury. Both were immobilised before being conveyed by land ambulance to Warwick Hospital.”

Ends

Notes to Editors: I have no more details regarding this incident and am unable to provide condition checks.

 

 

Thursday 18^th April 2013 – 2.00pm – Claire Brown.

Life-saving boxes to help patients in cardiac arrest have been installed on ambulance hubs in the Black Country in case of an emergency in the neighbourhood.

Dudley Ambulance Hub on Burton Road and Willenhall Ambulance Hub on Ashmore Lake Way are now home to a community defibrillator; a device used to restart someone’s heart when they’ve suffered a cardiac arrest. The defibrillators located in yellow boxes are secure but publicly accessible in the event of an emergency.

Emma Wilkins, the Trust’s Black Country Community Response Manager, said: “By living near to an ambulance hub you might expect there to always be a paramedic around on site. However, with the ambulance service busier than ever, there is always the possibility of all of our operational crews being out on 999 calls.

“In order to give peace of mind to locals, we’ve installed a defibrillator at both sites which are accessible to members of the community to help start life-saving treatment to someone in cardiac arrest whilst an ambulance is en route. Non-operational staff based at both hubs, who are on site 24/7, have also been given basic life support training to lend a hand in the event of an emergency.

“If someone suffers a cardiac arrest nearby either hub, our neighbours should call 999 immediately and head to the hub for a defibrillator to give the patient the best chance of survival.”

Ends

Notes to Editors:

To find out more about community defibrillators in the Black Country, please contact Emma Wilkins (Black Country Community Response Manager) via emma.wilkins@wmas.nhs.uk.

Thursday 18st April 2013 – 1.10pm – Chris Kowalik.

Vintage tractors are due to take to the woods and countryside of Shropshire and Herefordshire to raise funds for a group of volunteer lifesavers.

The tractor run on Sunday 23rd June will be the second such event in aid of Leintwardine and Bucknell Community First Responders following last year’s successful inaugural run. It will begin at 10am from Daffodil Lane Recreational Ground in Bucknell.

Community First Responders are everyday members of the public trained by West Midlands Ambulance Service to a nationally recognised level in lifesaving techniques including the use of a defibrillator, a device used to restart the heart of someone who has suffered a cardiac arrest. Their local knowledge and proximity are among their many assets, particularly in rural areas. They can be sent by the ambulance service’s control room to medical emergencies in their area while an emergency ambulance vehicle is en-route.

There are four CFRs in Leintwardine and Bucknell including a man who first used a defibrillator for real on his own sister who subsequently survived the cardiac arrest she had suffered.

This year’s fundraising tractor run will raise funds for the CFR scheme in the two villages and for Bucknell Memorial Hall.

Anyone wishing to take part or to sponsor the event is invited to contact Community First Responder Nicola Edwards on 07973 563 829.

It is one of two fundraising events for the group in the same month; on Sunday 9th June the CFRs with the assistance of local firefighters will carry a stretchered “patient” 5.3 miles from Bucknell to Leintwardine. Anyone wishing to sponsor them is again asked to contact Nicola.

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Thursday 18th April 2013 – 9.00am – Claire Brown.

A woman has been seriously injured in a flat fire in Stourbridge.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Rutland Place in Wollaston, Stourbridge shortly after 9.15pm yesterday evening (Wednesday). An ambulance, a paramedic area support officer and a MERIT trauma doctor attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “On arrival crews found a woman who had suffered approximately 80% burns to her body in the fire.

“Crews administered pain relief and began applying cooling burns dressings to her extensive wounds. Given the serious nature of the woman’s injuries, the doctor quickly took the decision to anaesthetise her at the scene to stabilise her condition.

“The woman was then taken by land ambulance on blue lights to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, the region’s specialist burns unit, for further emergency treatment. The doctor travelled in the ambulance to hospital to continue vital pre hospital care en route. Medics were pre alerted to the arrival of the woman who, at the time of transfer, was said to be in a critical condition.”

Ends

Notes to Editor: I have no more details regarding the incident or the age of the patient. I am unable to provide a condition check. Please contact West Midlands Fire Service with further enquiries relating to this case.

A paramedic from Herefordshire is to cycle from John O’Groats to Lands End taking in the highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales.

Steve Skyrme is doing it in aid of St. Michael’s Hospice.

Read about it here: http://www.st-michaels-hospice.org.uk/Fundraising/fundraising-stories/JOGLE+and+3+Peaks+Challenge

Wednesday 17th April 2013 – 7.45am – Claire Brown.

One woman has died and five other people have been injured, two seriously, in a house fire in Birmingham this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service received a 999 call at around 5.00am to reports of a house fire on Cateswell Road in Springfield. Four ambulances, a responder paramedic, two paramedic area support officers, the Hazardous Area Response Team and a MERIT trauma doctor were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “When crews arrived they found the fire service tackling a large house fire. Sadly it quickly became apparent to crews that nothing could be done to save one occupant, a woman, and she was confirmed deceased on scene.

“Five other people were out of the property and needed medical help.

“A teenage girl sustained approximately 70% burns to her body. Due to her critical injuries, the doctor sedated the girl on scene in order to stabilise her condition and to enable crews to fully assess and begin treating her burns. The girl was taken by land ambulance on blue lights to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham; the doctor travelled with the girl to hospital.

“A 26 year old woman sustained around 50% burns to her back, legs and arms. She was given pain relief and fluids by ambulance crews and cooling burns dressings were applied to her wounds before she was alerted to the same hospital for further emergency treatment.

“A woman believed to be in her 20s, who had reportedly jumped from a window, had leg, pelvis, shoulder and neck injuries. She was given pain relief, immobilised with a neck collar and spinal board and stabilised by crews before being taken to the same hospital.

“A fourth woman, believed to be in her 20s, sustained minor leg and shoulder injuries and a 55 year old man had minor burns to his face and hands. Both were treated by crews before being taken to Heartlands Hospital for further assessment and treatment.”

Ends
Notes to Editors:
I have no more details regarding this incident and am unable to provide condition checks.

Tuesday 16th April 2013 – 10.30pm – Claire Brown.

A man has died in a road traffic collision in Wolverhampton.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a collision involving a motorcyclist and a car on the Birmingham New Road in Coseley, near to Silver Jubilee Park shortly before 6.30pm earlier this evening (Tuesday). Two ambulance crews, two responder paramedics, a MERIT trauma doctor and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find a motorcyclist and a car which had been in collision. The motorcyclist, a man, suffered multiple serious injuries and was in cardiac arrest. An off duty nurse and other bystanders were doing CPR. Crews immediately took over resuscitation efforts at the roadside to administer advanced life support.

“The man was airlifted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham with the doctor and paramedic continuing vital treatment en route. Sadly, despite best efforts, nothing could be done to save the man and he was confirmed dead on arrival at hospital.

“The driver of the car suffered cuts and bruises and was taken to Russells Hall Hospital as a precaution.”

Ends
Notes to Editors: I have no more details regarding this incident.

Tuesday 16th April 2013 – 10.35am – Chris Kowalik.

An appeal has been launched for Community First Responders (CFRs) in Worcestershire.

Volunteers are particularly needed in Droitwich, Pershore, Tenbury Wells, Malvern and Evesham.

CFRs are everyday members of the public who are trained in lifesaving techniques including the use of a defibrillator, a device used to restart the heart of someone who has suffered a cardiac arrest. Their availability, close proximity and local knowledge of the area are among their many assets.

CFRs will be called by the ambulance service’s control room to medical emergencies in their area while an ambulance is en route. They are vital in life-threatening situations, particularly in the case of a cardiac arrest, stroke and trauma when every minute counts.

Jenny Sears-Brown, Community Response Manager Support Officer for Worcestershire, said: “Volunteers come from all walks of life. When they make themselves available to respond they can continue to go about their daily lives, but if an emergency call is received by the ambulance service within a five or six mile radius, they are sent and always backed-up by an emergency ambulance service vehicle.

“To volunteer, you must be aged 18 or over, have a full driving licence and lots of enthusiasm.

“Help will be provided in obtaining the necessary equipment and no previous experience is necessary as West Midlands Ambulance Service will provide the training.

Applicants will attend a nationally recognised training course; covering Basic Life Support and Defibrillation, Medical Emergencies, Traumatic Emergencies and Preparing for Active Duty. They will then train alongside ambulance crews and a before going ‘live’”.

Michelle Brotherton, West Midlands Ambulance Service General Manager for the West Mercia area said: “We really support Community First Responders and call upon them to help their local community. Community First Responders are an integral part of the ambulance service. The work they do is outstanding and is greatly valued. It’s about giving something back to their local community. In a life-threatening case every minute makes a difference.”

For more information about the work of Community First Responders or to become one yourself, contact Jenny Sears-Brown on 07795 497 937 or via jenny.sbrown@wmas.nhs.uk . Alternatively contact the CFR admin office on (01384 215 855) or via CFRAdmin@wmas.nhs.uk

Ends

 

Monday 15^th April 2013 – 4.00pm – Suzie Fothergill.  

A motorist has had a lucky escape following a road traffic collision on the motorway today.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a collision between a car and a lorry near to Junction T3 on the M6 Toll shortly before 10.30am this morning.

An ambulance and a senior paramedic officer were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “On arrival at the scene crews found a car and a lorry that had been in collision. The car had suffered significant front end damage.

“The driver of the car, a man believed to be in his 30’s, was out of the vehicle on the crew’s arrival. The man was assessed and treated for minor injuries to his wrists and ankles before being discharged at the scene.

“Considering the nature of the incident the man was extremely fortunate to not have suffered more serious injuries. 

“No one else was injured in the incident.”

Ends

Notes to Editors

If used, images must be credited to West Midlands Ambulance Service.

Monday 15^th April 2013 – 3.00pm – Suzie Fothergill.

A man has been airlifted to hospital following a road traffic collision in Herefordshire today.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the incident near to Whitestone Business Park in Whitestone, Hereford shortly after 8.35am this morning.

Two ambulances, a paramedic area support officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham were dispatched to the scene. An off duty paramedic was also in attendance.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “On arrival at the scene crews found two cars that had been in collision.

“The driver of one of the cars was found to be trapped in the vehicle. The patient was released, with the assistance of the fire service, and treated for potential internal injuries and neck pain.

“The casualty, a man believed to be in his 60’s, was given pain relief at the scene and fully immobilised before being conveyed to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham for further assessment and treatment.

“A second patient was assessed at the scene but did not require further hospital treatment.”

Ends

Sunday 14^h April 2013 – 9.30pm – John Hawker.

A woman has died following an RTC in Staffordshire this afternoon.

The crash occurred on the A500, between Talke and Audley, towards Junction 16 of the M6 at around 3.40pm.  An ambulance, a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic officer, two BASICS Doctors and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford with a further BASICS Doctors on board attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a car that had been in a significant collision with a tree.

“The driver of the car had suffered series injuries and then went into cardiac arrest.

“Advanced life support was immediately carried out and the woman was transferred by land ambulance to University Hospital North Staffordshire with resuscitation attempts continuing en route.  

“Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of medics, nothing could be done to save the woman and she was confirmed dead shortly after arriving at hospital.”

 Ends

We have no further details on this incident. 

Sunday 14^th April 2013 – 5.40pm – John Hawker.

The rider of a motorcycle had a lucky escape following an RTC on the M40 between Junctions 16 and 15 Southbound this afternoon.

The crash occurred at around 2.40pm with an off duty paramedic being first on scene.  An ambulance and a paramedic officer also attended the incident.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “An off duty WMAS paramedic was first on the scene and found a motorcyclist that had fallen from his motorcycle in the outside lane of the motorway.

“The man, believed to be 32 years old, received emergency treatment at the scene by the paramedic, who was then joined by colleagues who continued with treatment.

 “The man suffered back and hand injuries and was immobilised using a spinal board and neck collar.  He also received pain relief as he was transferred to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire for further treatment.

 “The hospital had been alerted to the patient’s arrival and his injuries.

“Considering where the man had fallen off his machine, he man was extremely fortunate not to have suffered more serious or even fatal injuries.  Thankfully the motorcyclist was wearing full safety clothing which undoubtedly helped minimise his injuries.”

Ends

We have no further details on this incident. 

Sunday 14^h April 2013 – 5.00pm – John Hawker.

A man has died following an RTC on the M42 this morning.

The crash occurred between junctions 10 and 9, Southbound at around 8am.  An ambulance, a paramedic officer and the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a car that rolled over and was up the embankment of the motorway.

“The driver of the car had suffered multiple serious injuries and was in traumatic cardiac arrest.  Advanced life support was carried, but unfortunately despite the best efforts of ambulance crews, nothing could be done to save the man and he was confirmed dead at the scene.”

Ends

We have no further details on this incident

Saturday 13^th April 2013 – 9.45am – John Hawker. 

Three people have been injured, one seriously in a house fire in Staffordshire in the early hours of this morning.

The fire occurred at a house in Ellams Place, Knutton, at around 12.40am.  Two ambulances, a paramedic officer and a BASICS Doctor attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a man, believed to be in his 30’s, with serious burn injuries to his back, arms and feet following a house fire.

“The man received emergency treatment at the scene using specialist burn packs and also received pain relief.  He was transferred by ambulance to University Hospital North Staffordshire for further emergency treatment.

“A woman and young baby also in the property at the time of the fire were treated at the scene for the effects of smoke inhalation.  Both were transferred by ambulance to the same hospital for further treatment.”

Ends

We have no further details on this incident. 

Friday 12^th April 2013 – 11.15pm – John Hawker.

A driver has been trapped in her car for around 40 minutes after it left the road and hit a tree in Warwickshire this evening.

The crash occurred on Lighthorne Road, Kineton, at around 6.55pm.  An ambulance, a rapid response vehicle and a paramedic officer attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a car that had left the road and been in collision with a tree.

“The driver of the car, a woman believed to be in her early 20’s, suffered serious leg injuries and also suspected neck and back injuries.

“The woman received emergency treatment and stabilised before being extricated from the vehicle with the help of the fire service.  She was trapped for around 40 minutes.

“The woman was then transferred by ambulance to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire for further emergency treatment.”

 Ends

We have no further details on this incident. 

 

Friday 12^th April 2013 – 10.30pm – John Hawker.

Three people have been injured, one seriously following an RTC on the M6 Toll Road this afternoon.

 The crash occurred between junctions T7 and T6, Southbound at around 3.50pm.  Two ambulances, a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Staffordshire attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to reports of three vehicles that had been in a crash.

“A woman driving one car, believed to be in her mid 20’s, suffered serious leg injuries and was trapped the vehicle.  She received emergency treatment at the scene and her condition was stabilised.  The woman was extricated from the vehicle and was airlifted to University Hospital North Staffordshire for further emergency treatment.

“A man and a woman who were travelling in the other vehicles both suffered minor injuries and were treated at the scene.  Both were transferred by land ambulance to Walsall Manor Hospital for further treatment.”

Ends

We have no further details on this incident and we are unable to do condition checks. 

West Midlands Ambulance Service is currently recruiting qualified paramedics and technicians. To find out more and to apply, please visit www.jobs.nhs.uk and search for West Midlands Ambulance Service.

   

Thursday 11^th April 2013 – 4.30pm – Claire Thomas.

Lorry drivers are to be trained in life saving first aid with help from West Midlands Ambulance Service as part of a national road safety initiative.

Driver First Assist (DFA), launched at the Commercial Vehicles Show in Birmingham this week, is an initiative to provide professional drivers with first aid training to help at the scene of road traffic collisions whilst emergency services are en route.

Supported by all three emergency services through the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives (AACE), the Association of Chief Police Officers and the Chief Fire Officers Association, The training programme for DFA has been developed by the Central Motorways Police Group with input from West Midlands Ambulance Service.

The one day course covers life-saving first aid and scene management enabling lorry drivers to give vital aid if they come across a road traffic collision. Drivers from the logistics industry are to be the first to receive training in the coming months. The training also counts towards the profession’s Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).

The Trust will be running ‘Train the Trainer’ courses to fellow ambulance services through the NHS Ambulance Service First Aid training consortium (NASFA) over the next few months to provide local trainers across the country to support the DFA initiative.

AACE Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of West Midlands Ambulance Service, Dr Anthony Marsh said: “The Association of Ambulance Chief Executives is delighted to endorse this important programme.

“We look forward to working in partnership with DFA to ensure the highest standard of first aid training is provided to all who participate. Sadly, road traffic collisions sometimes result in people suffering life threatening injuries where every minute counts to their chances of survival.

“By providing professional driver, who are often first to witness or come across such incidents, with basic life support training and the knowledge to know what to do will ultimately mean patients get the care they need whilst emergency help is en route.”

David Higginbottom from Driver First Assist said: “We believe we have an effective strategy to train a significant number of drivers, starting with HGV drivers. Our vision is for thousands of trained personnel equipped to take action in the first critical moments after an RTC.”

Ends

Notes to Editors:

Pictured (left to right): Malcolm Price (WMAS Commercial Services Development Manager), David Higginbottom (Driver First Assist) and PC Steve Rounds (Central Motorways Police Group) pictured at the Commercial Vehicles Show at the NEC.

For more information about Driver First Assist please contact Automotive PR Ltd on 0207 952 1070 or email mhayes@automotivepr.com.

 

Wednesday 10^th April 2013 – 3.45pm – Suzie Fothergill.  

A man has been taken to hospital following an incident in Birmingham today.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to a road traffic collision on the A446 Pool Island in Coleshill at approximately 7.20am this morning.

An ambulance, a rapid response vehicle, a senior paramedic ambulance officer and a community first responder were dispatched to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “On arrival at the scene crews found a lorry that had overturned on to its side.

“The driver of the lorry, a man, had sustained a head injury. The man was treated at the scene and was fully immobilised before being conveyed to Heartlands Hospital for further assessment and treatment.”

Ends 

Notes to Editors

If the image is used please credit West Midlands Ambulance Service.

Monday 8th Aprtil 2013 – 8pm – Steve Parry.

A lorry driver and road users on the M6 Toll had an ‘amazing’ escape according to ambulance crews after a lorry left a flyover on the M42 and crashed onto the M6 Toll near Coleshill.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the incident near T1 on M6 Toll just before 6.30pm.

An ambulance together with a paramedic officer in a rapid response vehicle and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Ambulance crews responded to a road traffic collision following reports of a lorry coming off a flyover on the M42 and landing on the northbound M6 Toll road.   

 “Crews treated the lorry driver, a man in his 50s, for serious lower leg fractures, neck and back pain and facial lacerations.

The driver crawled out of his badly damaged cab and was treated at the scene by paramedics before being airlifted to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham for further assessment.

“The M6 Toll northbound was closed as a result of the incident.”

End