A motorcyclist has died following a collision with a van in Coventry.
West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Tamworth Road shortly before 5.55pm yesterday (Saturday)
A paramedic area support officer, a senior paramedic officer and an ambulance crew attended.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The man had suffered numerous serious injuries and attempts were made to resuscitate him at the scene.
Sadly, despite those best efforts, he was confirmed dead at the scene.”
A woman has died and five people have been taken to hospital following a road traffic collision involving two cars.
West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Alcester Road, Portway shortly before 3.05pm yesterday.
Three ambulances, a paramedic area support officer, an advanced community paramedic, a senior paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulances from Cosford and Strensham attended.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “A woman driver, the single occupant of one of the cars, was confirmed dead at the scene.
“There were said to be five people in the other car. A man in his thirties had a head injury and shoulder pain and was flown to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham
“A man in his fifties was flown to the same hospital with a chest injury.
“A woman with chest pain and a man who was a ‘walking wounded’ casualty were taken in the same ambulance to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.
“And another man, also a ‘walking wounded’ casualty, was taken by land ambulance to the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch.”
A man has died and three people have been injured in a road traffic collision on the M6 in Staffordshire.
West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the southbound carriageway between junctions 15 and 14 shortly after 9am today.
Four ambulance crews, a senior paramedic officer in a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic Area Support Officer in a rapid response vehicle and a BASICS Emergency doctor attended.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “It is believed three motorcycles were involved.
“Attempts were made to resuscitate a man who was riding one of the motorbikes both at the scene and en-route to the University Hospital of North Staffordshire. Unfortunately despite those best efforts, he was confirmed dead at hospital.
“His pillion passenger, a woman in her forties, had suspected shoulder and arm fractures. She was given immediate treatment for her injuries and pain relief was administered. She was taken to the same hospital.
“Two other men who complained of neck and back injuries were both immobilised with the use of spinal boards and neck collars and were taken to the same hospital.”
A man’s body has been pulled from the waters of a quarry in Worcestershire, the third open water-related death in the West Midlands despite numerous appeals not to swim in such waters and warnings of their dangers.
In the latest incident, West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Gullet Quarry near Upper Colwall shortly before 4.25pm today. It was the same water in which a man died last Saturday. Yesterday a teenage boy who was swimming with friends in the River Avon in Evesham became entangled in fishing netting and was taken to hospital. Earlier today the body of a man was recovered from the River Severn in Bridgnorth.
Attending today’s incident at Gullet Quarry were two ambulance crews, an advanced Community Paramedic in a rapid response vehicle, the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham and members of the Hazardous Area Response Team. Other emergency services also attended.
Shortly before 7pm, the body of a man was recovered and he was confirmed dead at the scene.
For John Woodhall, a water rescue specialist with West Midlands Ambulance Service, it was his second call to the quarry within a week. He said: “I’ve been here twice now. How many more people need to die before someone takes notice of our warnings of the dangers of swimming in open waters?
“After the first death I was back here at the quarry doing a TV news interview about it. The dead man’s friends were laying flowers and, despite warning a man walking past me not to go into the water, he still did. He walked past the tributes on the way. I must have counted 20 people still swimming there.
“Quarries are not like swimming pools. The water is much colder. You go from 28 degrees outside to 10 degrees in the water. You can get muscle cramps and stitches. The bottom is uneven, there are no depth markings. Even strong swimmers can slip underwater and you may not make it back up again. Sadly, this is something that has now happened three times.”
Friday 12th July 2013 – 6.20pm – Murray MacGregor.
With the Met Office again predicting temperatures in the shade of around 27-29 degrees Celsius tomorrow (Saturday), West Midlands Ambulance Service is gearing up for another busy weekend.
Last weekend call rates were up by well over a third on what we would have expected for the time of year putting immense pressure on the 999 service.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Unfortunately, many of those calls were from conditions that could easily have been prevented.
“We received far too many 999 calls relating to sunburn, dehydration from not drinking enough water while out and about and heat stroke. All of these cases could have been avoided if some simple precautions had been taken.
“The hot weather adversely affects people with medical conditions such as asthma, bronchitis and allergies so we are urging patients to make sure they are prepared for the conditions by carrying inhalers and any other medication that they might need in an emergency.
“If we are dealing with avoidable calls, it means it could take us longer to get to people with genuine medical needs which, in some cases, could be life threatening.
“Our staff will all be working extremely hard to meet the demand but we’d ask people to think about how they can help us.
“It is vital that everyone takes their responsibility to look after themselves seriously. The heat affects everyone, but the young and elderly are particularly at risk. Please check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be less able to look after themselves.
“We live in a wonderful area with stunning scenery and loads to do outside. Please enjoy it, but enjoy it safely so that you don’t become an ambulance statistic.”
Top tips for keeping well in the heat:
• Avoid being out in the sun at the hottest part of the day, usually between 11am and 3pm.
• Keep as cool as possible – wear a hat when sitting or working outside.
• Use sunscreen (factor 15+)
• Carry medicines for conditions such as asthma and bronchitis.
• Drink plenty of water. The normal recommended daily intake of fluid is 2.5 litres or eight glasses per day. In extreme heat experts recommend more.
• Try to avoid drinking alcohol – hot weather speeds up the effects and it can lead to dehydration. Alternate alcoholic drinks with water or fruit juice.
• Be very careful around open water; we have already had two tragedies in a week and one near miss.
Friday 12th July 2013 – 3.00pm – Suzie Fothergill.
West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) will be attending this year’s Staffordshire Bike Show.
The annual show, expecting to attract over 25,000 visitors, is being held at Britannia Stadium in Stoke on Trent on Sunday 14th July.
West Midlands Ambulance Services paramedics, alongside Stone Community First Responders will be on hand throughout the event talking about the role of the ambulance service, community first responders and measures that bikers can take in order to stay safe as they take the roads.
WMAS Community Response Manager, Matt Heward said: “Attending events like this is really important to the Service, allowing ambulance staff to engagewith the public.
“With the nice weather we are currently experiencing the number of bikers on the roads has significantly increased. Each year the Service unfortunately attends to numerous collision involving motorbikes, with a significant number of these crashes resulting in fatalities or serious injuries. It is important for motorcyclists as well as other motorists to understand their role in the safety of all road users.
“For motorcyclists, it is important to wear the right protective equipment. A good set of leathers, closed-toe footwear, leather gloves and a helmet can all help minimise injuries. High visibility clothing is also advised to be worn to help other motorists see bikers whilst on the road.
“It is really important for people to concentrate on arriving at their destination safely, rather than as quickly as possible.
“Equally we ask drivers to be vigilant and aware of the motorcyclist who may be on the road, all too often ambulance staff will arrive at collisions and hear stories of drivers failing to have seen bikers.”
Visitors to the show will also have the opportunity to find out more about free lifesaving HeartStart courses that WMAS has to offer.
Matt added: “The Trust has many initiatives running within the community, one of which is HeartStart. This project which was launched in April last year aims to train 60,000 members of Staffordshire public in basic first aid techniques over a five year period. The team have trained over 9,500 people already which is great news, and hopefully following this event more people will signed up to undertake this lifesaving course.”
Anyone wanting more information about HeartStart or other community engagement schemes that the Trust has in place are invited to pop along to the stand and have a chat with the team.
A teenage boy has been pulled from a river near Evesham after getting into difficulty yesterday evening.
West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a person in difficulties near Blind Lane, Evesham at 7pm yesterday (Thursday).
West Midlands Ambulance Service sent an ambulance and a paramedic Officer to the scene.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived on scene to be told a teenage boy had got into difficulty after swimming with friends in the River Avon.
“The teenager was extremely fortunate to be pulled to safety after he got entangled in fishing nets. The patient was assessed at the scene and later taken to Worcester Hospital for further assessment and treatment.
WMAS General Manager Michelle Brotherton, who responded to the 999 call, said “The incident once again highlights the unseen dangers of cooling off in rivers, lakes and disused quarries.
“The emergency services attend cases such as this all too often. I would strongly urge members of the public to heed our warnings about swimming in rivers, lakes and quarries during the current heatwave as it is extremely dangerous and can end in tragedy.”
Thursday 11th July 2013 – 10.50pm – Chris Kowalik.
West Midlands Ambulance Service was this evening involved in the search for a man who was reportedly seen in difficulty in the River Severn in Bridgnorth.
The service was called shortly before 5.30pm today to the river near the town’s rowing club.
Bridgnorth’s advanced Community Paramedic attended in a rapid response vehicle along with a volunteer Community First Responder from the town, an ambulance crew, a paramedic Area Support Officer in a rapid response vehicle, a senior paramedic officer and the Hazardous Area Response Team. Other emergency and rescue services also attended.
Searches of the river were conducted throughout the evening until there was no daylight left, at which point the search was ended. So far, no-one has been found.
A man has died in a non-stop road traffic collision in Wolverhampton this afternoon.
West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a collision involving a cyclist and a car on the Stafford Road, near the Texaco Garage, in Wolverhampton shortly after 12.30pm (Thursday).
An ambulance, a paramedic area support officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford with a MERIT trauma doctor on board attended the scene. A second ambulance crew, who was en route to hospital, came across the incident and stopped to help.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “A man had come off his bicycle after a reported collision with a car.
“The man had suffered serious injuries and was in cardiac arrest. Ambulance crews immediately commenced CPR on the man but sadly, it quickly became apparent that nothing could be done to save him and the doctor confirmed death on scene.”
Volunteer lifesavers in north Shropshire have been presented with a cheque for £5,000 by the outgoing president of their local Rotary Club.
North Shropshire Community First Responders (CFRs) was the Rotary Club of Whitchurch’s charity of the year. The CFR scheme, a registered charity (number 1136523) funded by voluntary donation currently consists of a dozen active volunteers from all walks of life trained by West Midlands Ambulance Service who respond to medical emergencies in their area while an emergency ambulance service vehicle is en-route. The scheme covers all areas of the north of the county including Whitchurch, Market Drayton, Wem, Newport, Hinstock and Shawbury.
On Tuesday 2nd July, the scheme was presented with the cheque at Doddington Lodge Hotel in Whitchurch by the Rotary Club’s outgoing president George Brown. It was the result of a year of fundraising by the Rotary Club from various activities including a highly successful “Come Dine With Me” evening hosted at Whitchurch Rugby Club which raised in excess of £1,700.
Gerry Evans, Co-ordinator of the North Shropshire Community First Responders Scheme said: “We have had a longstanding association with the Rotary Club and this was the first time we have been their nominated charity. I didn’t expect them to raise so much money – I was very pleasantly surprised! The donation will go towards the replacement of two of our three scheme response cars.”
Pictured left to right: shows President George Brown presenting the cheque to (from the left) Gerry Evans (North Shropshire CFR scheme co-ordinator), Nick Lovatt (CFR), Lynne Stokes (CFR), George Brown (outgoing President of the Rotary Club of Whitchurch), Kelly Wood (CFR), David Ladd (CFR) and Simon Davies (CFR).
Two men have escaped with cuts and bruises after the light aircraft they were in landed upside down in a field in Staffordshire.
West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the field near Yeatsall Lane in Abbots Bromley shortly before 5.55pm today.
An advanced Community Paramedic in a rapid response vehicle, a Paramedic Area Support Officer in a rapid response vehicle, an ambulance crew and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Staffordshire attended.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “It’s understood the two men managed to get out of the aircraft and walk to a nearby farmhouse for help, then went back to the aircraft where the crews found them.
“They had head lacerations and bruises, both were immobilised with the use of spinal boards and both were taken to the University Hospital of North Staffordshire; one by land ambulance, the other by air ambulance.”
A new born baby girl from the Black Country has been named Ella Nicola after she was delivered in a broken elevator by a paramedic called Nicola last week.
Ambulance crews were called to a pregnancy case on the 9th floor of a block of flats in Reservoir Road, Rowley Regis on Friday 5th July just before 1.00pm.
Paramedic Steve Millward responded in his rapid response vehicle and was first on scene. He said: “When I arrived, Melissa was in the early stages of labour so I called for an ambulance crew as she needed to go to hospital but, given her contractions were still quite far apart, it looked like we had quite a bit of time so there was no real panic.”
With the ambulance parked up outside, Melissa, her boyfriend Paul, the ambulance crew and Steve got in the lift as, being nine floors up and with a woman in labour, the stairs weren’t really an option. Sadly, the lift broke down, trapping the five inside.
Paramedic, Nikki Wildman, said: “When the lift stopped we didn’t think anything of it initially. We called up the ambulance control room to request the fire services assistance and waited. About 20 minutes later, we were all still in the lift when Melissa’s contractions started to get a lot closer together. We all looked at each other because we knew the baby wasn’t going to wait for the lift to be repaired.
“Despite it being cramped and hot, we all worked as a team to help Melissa deliver a healthy baby girl. During the delivery we could hear the fire service desperately trying to get to us and after about 45 minutes of being trapped, the firefighters managed to prise open the doors and we were able to take Melissa, Paul and their new bouncing baby girl to hospital.”
Emergency Care Assistant (ECA) Nigel Goodman, who was working with Nikki added: “When it was all over, I remember saying to Melissa and Paul that they should call her Ella, short for elevator….and they have!”
On Tuesday, 23-year-old Melissa Cavanagh and her boyfriend, 25-year-old Paul Yeomans, met up with the ambulance crew that delivered their baby girl. Melissa, a proud mum of three, said: “Neither of us like lifts at the best of times so when it got stuck we panicked. The staff from West Midlands Ambulance Service were really great, they kept me calm and helped me through it.
“It’s all thanks to Nicola, Steve and Nigel as we couldn’t have done it without them. We thought it only appropriate to make Ella’s middle name Nicola, after all the work that her namesake did to deliver her. Thank you so much to all three for their help.”
Nikki, who has been a paramedic with the Trust for 15 years, said: “We really appreciate the family taking the trouble to say thank you and I’m humbled that they’ve decided to use my name. It was a team effort on the day and Melissa definitely did all the hard work. It was lovely to see them again and I wish them all the best for their future.”
ENDS
Notes to Editors:
Pictured outside the lift (left to right): ECA Nigel Goodman, Paramedic Nikki Wildman, baby Ella Nicola, Mum Melissa Cavanagh and Dad Paul Yeomans.
The family and ambulance crews have requested not to be contacted by the media.
Ella Nicola weighed 6lbs 1oz when she was born.
Nikki Wildman is 39 from Penkridge in Staffordshire and is based in Willenhall.
Steve Millwall is 32 from Malvern in Worcestershire and is based in Oldbury.
Nigel Goodman is 56 from Brierley Hill in the Black Country and is based in Willenhall.
Please credit West Midlands Ambulance Service for the photographs.
Passersby and a nearby forklift truck helped free a motorcyclist whose head had become trapped underneath the bumper of a van in Birmingham.
The motorcyclist, a man in his fifties, collided with the vehicle in Summer Lane to where West Midlands Ambulance Service was called shortly after 5.50pm today.
An advanced paramedic in a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic in a rapid response vehicle and an ambulance crew attended.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Passersby tried to push the van away but there was a forklift truck at an industrial unit near the scene of the collision. The forklift was used to lift the van.
“Once the man was freed from underneath the front of the van, he was fully immobilised with the use of a spinal board and neck collar and pulled free. Assessments at the scene indicated a shoulder injury and a suspected minor chest injury.
“He was given pain relief` and was taken to City Hospital for further assessment and treatment.”
The West Midlands is the second most diverse region in the country. Therefore, the start of Ramadan is important for many people. As well as being one of the focal points of the Muslim year, this period that we have now entered is one that sees thousands of Muslims fasting.
We’ve been briefing our staff on what it means for patients and how it might affect the treatments we provide.
After the tragedy on Saturday where a teenager died in a water filled quarry near the Malvern Hills, you can find out more about the dangers of swimming and playing in open water such as rivers, lakes and quarries. Water rescue specialist, John Woodhall, from our Hazardous Area Response Team has been speaking to Danny Kelly on BBC WM:
Tuesday 9th July 2013 – 7.05am – Murray MacGregor.
Ambulance bosses are warning motorcyclists to continue to wear leathers despite the hot temperatures after a rider was left with horrific injuries after a crash in Coventry.
The 39 year old rider crashed on the A45 Coventry to Rugby road near the Henry VIII School playing fields.
An ambulance and a paramedic officer were sent to the scene after a number of 999 emergency calls at 5.50am on Tuesday morning.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, crews found a man who had suffered a very serious chest injury after he collided with the central reservation. He had a multitude of other lacerations and had been knocked unconscious for a period.
“The crew immediately immobilised the man using a neck collar and spinal board and treated his injuries before taking him on blue lights to University Hospital Coventry & Warwickshire.
“Although he has a very serious injury, it does not look like it will be life threatening.
“Unfortunately, the man was not wearing ‘leathers’. Whilst we understand it is very hot, wearing such protective equipment is vital in reducing the level of injuries should a motorcyclist crash.
“A good set of leathers, safety helmet and high visibility clothing go a long way to minimising injury.”
A woman has died and three other people have been injured after a car and a 4×4 were in collision in Handsworth.
The crash happened at the junction of Newcombe Road and Sandwell Road at just before 3.50pm today (Monday).
Three ambulances, a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic officer the Midlands Air Ambulance, which was carrying the MERIT Trauma Doctor, were sent to the scene.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, crews found two vehicles had been involved in the impact. The car had suffered very significant side damage.
“An elderly woman driving the car suffered multiple injuries. Ambulance staff and the doctor worked on her at the scene before taking her on blue lights to the major trauma centre at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham by land ambulance.
“Sadly despite all of the efforts of ambulance and hospital staff, it was not possible to save her and she was confirmed dead shortly after arrival.
“Two other women from the car were also injured. One estimated to be in her 60s was complaining of chest pain. She was immobilised using a neck collar and spinal board before being taken to City Hospital. A woman in the rear of the car, who was estimated to be in her 40s also had chest pain and was taken to the same hospital.
“The man driving the 4×4, who was estimated to be in his 30s, was complaining of back pain. He was immobilised before being taken to Sandwell Hospital.”
Whether you’re a soldier or a civilian and suffer a cardiac arrest in Kingswinford, you’re in safe hands at The Royal British Legion.
The local community now has its very own Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on its doorstep, thanks to the Royal British Legion. It might not look like much from the outside but, when someone’s heart has stopped, the little box of shocks is easy to use and gives a person the best possible chance of surviving.
Emily Bennett works in the Trust’s Emergency Operations Centre in Brierley Hill but, in her spare time, responds to 999 calls as a South Staffordshire First Responder in Kingswinford and Kinver. By experiencing both ends of a 999 call, from reassuring a distressed relative on the phone to being the first to arrive at a patients’ side, she knows the importance of getting help to people fast.
Emily, South Staffordshire First Responders Coordinator and Trustee, said: “I approached the club to see if they were interested in housing the community AED and they were more than happy. It’s such an ideal location in the heart of Kingswinford and everyone in the area knows where The Royal British Legion is.
“When someone suffers a cardiac arrest, time is everything. By starting early CPR and using a defibrillator it gives that person a better chance of surviving. Situated in a secure yellow metal box on the outside of the building, the defibrillator is easy to find and publicly accessible in the event of an emergency.
“We’re hosting a defibrillator awareness day at the Royal British Legion, Summerhill, on Saturday 27th July from 9.00am – 1.00pm. We’ll be offering free, simple and easy first aid, CPR and defibrillator training and we hope to get as many people trained as possible so please pop in!”
George Dudley, the Club’s Chairman, said: “It’s an asset not only to the club but the community as a whole. We had a lady member suffer a cardiac arrest here last year so we know just how vital CPR is as she is thankfully alive and well today. If it saves just one life, it’s worth its weight in gold.”
ENDS
Notes to Editors:
Reporters and photographers are invited along to the awareness day. Please ask for Emily upon arrival.
Photograph 1: (left to right) CFRs Jon Izzard, Di Turner, Deborah Whitehouse and Emily Bennett handing over the defibrillator to club members Bob Townsend, George Dudley, Lucy Baker, Gwen Philpott and Tony Nock.
Photograph 2: Club Chairman George Dudley and South Staffordshire First Responder Emily Bennett outside the Royal British Legion.
Whether you’re a soldier or a civilian and suffer a cardiac arrest in Kingswinford, you’re in safe hands at The Royal British Legion.
The local community now has its very own Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on its doorstep, thanks to the Royal British Legion. It might not look like much from the outside but, when someone’s heart has stopped, the little box of shocks is easy to use and gives a person the best possible chance of surviving.
Emily Bennett works in the Trust’s Emergency Operations Centre in Brierley Hill but, in her spare time, responds to 999 calls as a South Staffordshire First Responder in Kingswinford and Kinver. By experiencing both ends of a 999 call, from reassuring a distressed relative on the phone to being the first to arrive at a patients’ side, she knows the importance of getting help to people fast.
Emily, South Staffordshire First Responders Coordinator and Trustee, said: “I approached the club to see if they were interested in housing the community AED and they were more than happy. It’s such an ideal location in the heart of Kingswinford and everyone in the area knows where The Royal British Legion is.
“When someone suffers a cardiac arrest, time is everything. By starting early CPR and using a defibrillator it gives that person a better chance of surviving. Situated in a secure yellow metal box on the outside of the building, the defibrillator is easy to find and publicly accessible in the event of an emergency.
“We’re hosting a defibrillator awareness day at the Royal British Legion, Summerhill, on Saturday 27th July from 9.00am – 1.00pm. We’ll be offering free, simple and easy first aid, CPR and defibrillator training and we hope to get as many people trained as possible so please pop in!”
George Dudley, the Club’s Chairman, said: “It’s an asset not only to the club but the community as a whole. We had a lady member suffer a cardiac arrest here last year so we know just how vital CPR is as she is thankfully alive and well today. If it saves just one life, it’s worth its weight in gold.”
ENDS
Notes to Editors:
Reporters and photographers are invited along to the awareness day. Please ask for Emily upon arrival.
Photograph 1: (left to right) CFRs Jon Izzard, Di Turner, Deborah Whitehouse and Emily Bennett handing over the defibrillator to club members Bob Townsend, George Dudley, Lucy Baker, Gwen Philpott and Tony Nock.
Photograph 2: Club Chairman George Dudley and South Staffordshire First Responder Emily Bennett outside the Royal British Legion.
West Midlands Ambulance Service is renewing calls for the public to use common sense with the Met Office predicting the high temperatures will continue for several more days.
Astonishingly, call numbers on Saturday were busier than New Year’s Eve, traditionally the busiest day of the year. Even today, Monday 8th July, call numbers are up 30% on the same day last week.
Assistant Chief Ambulance Officer, Diane Lee, said: “Having reviewed the figures from the weekend, so many of the calls we received were completely preventable.
“With such beautiful weather lots of people took the opportunity to go out. Unfortunately, that led to a rise in the number of alcohol related incidents we had to deal with. For example, people who collapsed and became unconscious from drinking too much; an increase in the number of people injured from falling over or injuring themselves in a variety of other ways while drunk. As a Trust we also saw an increase in the number of assaults compared to a normal Saturday night.
“We even had cases of sunburn that were alcohol related e.g. the patient who got drunk and fell asleep outside for several hours without sun cream on. There were also a number of cases of people who became dehydrated because they were outside for many hours without any fluids.
“The question we would put to people is this; if they were on their holiday in Spain or Greece, would they act in a similar manner? For the vast majority, the answer is no, because it would spoil their break. We would therefore ask people to act in a similar way at home and look after themselves; drinking plenty of water, using sun cream, wearing a hat and staying in the shade during the hottest part of the day (12 – 3pm).
“The concern for us is that hot weather brings genuine issues for a number of patients with long term conditions such as bronchitis and asthma. Both can be life threatening in certain circumstances so it is vital that we are able to deal with these calls quickly rather than having to deal with the hundreds of completely preventable cases that came in over the weekend.
“The latest information from the Met Office suggests that we are likely to see temperatures into the high twenties again tomorrow. Whilst midweek it may be a bit cloudier the weekend is likely to see temperatures similar or perhaps slightly higher than the weekend just gone.
“The last thing we want to do is stop people enjoying the wonderful weather, but we must ask everyone to use common sense and not put themselves and others at risk.”
Whilst the region basked in the summer sun yesterday, ambulance crews dealt with more 999 calls than on New Years’ Eve, traditionally the busiest day of the year for the ambulance service.
West Midlands Ambulance Service received 3,211 999 calls yesterday compared to 2,815 999 calls on New Years’ Eve in 2012. The comparative figures for each area are below:
Area
999 calls New Years’ Eve 2012
999 calls 6th July 2013
Birmingham
858
1013
Black Country
573
656
Coventry & Warwickshire
373
462
West Mercia
184
596
Staffordshire
575
551
Diane Lee, WMAS Assistant Chief Ambulance Officer, said: “Historically, when the weather is good, there is greater demand on both the ambulance service and the NHS as a whole. Yesterday was no exception and saw ambulance crews and control room staff work flat out to deal with 14% more 999 calls than on New Years’ Eve, traditionally the busiest day of the year.
“Today’s temperatures are expected to remain high and we are appealing to members of the public to stay safe in the sun by following a few simple steps to avoid the need to dial 999:
If you’re out in the sun make sure you apply plenty of sun cream, wear a hat and light, loose fitting cotton clothes. Avoid being out between 11am and 3pm, which is the hottest part of the day.
Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, to keep yourself hydrated. Remember, caffeine and alcohol can have the opposite effect and can actually dehydrate you.
If a barbecue is on the cards, please ensure that it is lit safely and in the correct manner. Avoid burn injuries by using the correct utensils and don’t let children play too closely to the hot barbecue. Lastly, please make sure that all food is cooked through properly to avoid any food poisoning incidents.
Fancy a swim? Then please do so in a supervised swimming pool. No matter how tempting it is to cool off in rivers and lakes. The Trust sadly dealt with a fatal drowning in a quarry in Herefordshire yesterday.
If you’re taking advantage of the sunshine and are going out for a walk or hike in the countryside, please make sure you wear the appropriate footwear to avoid any slips or trips.
If you’re planning on hitting the road for a trip away, make sure you’re prepared for your journey, take food and drinks and remember to break the journey up. If driving in residential areas, please watch out for ice cream vans and any children that may be distracted around them.
We would also ask bikers to be careful and wear appropriate safety clothing. Equally we ask car drivers to look out for bikers, as the number of these on the road will be significantly higher when the weather is good.”
Ends
Notes to Editors:
I am unable to provide a further break down of the comparative 999 calls figures.
A teenage boy has died after drowning in the lake of a disused quarry in the Malvern Hills.
West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a patient in cardiac arrest in water at Gullet Quarry near Upper Colwall shortly after 1.00pm this afternoon (Saturday). A number of resources were sent to the scene including an Officer, the Trust’s Hazardous Area Response Team and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived on scene to be told a teenage boy had failed to resurface after swimming in the lake.
“Ambulance staff split up to search the edges of the lake. The Trust’s HART paramedics teamed up with Hereford and Worcester Search and Rescue and a diving team from South Wales Police to undertake an extensive water search.
“Sadly, after a comprehensive search, the teenager was found at about 4.50pm. It quickly became apparent to crews that nothing could be done to save the boy and he was confirmed dead at the scene.
“This is a tragic case and our thoughts are with the boy’s family at this difficult time.
“The emergency services attend cases such as this all too often and we would urge members of the public to heed our warnings about swimming in rivers, lakes and quarries as it is extremely dangerous and can end in tragedy.”
Two men have been taken to hospital after the car they were travelling in crashed in Bridgnorth.
West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to near The Down Inn on the B4364 Ludlow Road just outside Bridgnorth just after 10.00pm last night (Friday). Two ambulances, a paramedic area support officer, a responder paramedic and a MERIT trauma doctor attended the scene.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The front seat passenger of the car, a man in his 20s, had reportedly hit his head on the windscreen in the crash and sustained a serious head injury.
“Crews and the doctor administered drugs to stabilise his condition whilst the fire service removed the roof of the car. The man was then carefully extricated from the vehicle and fully immobilised with a neck collar and spinal board before being taken by land ambulance on blue lights to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham. The doctor travelled with the man to hospital.
“The driver of the car, a man also believed to be in his 20s, suffered no apparent serious injuries but was disoriented and sick on scene. Given the damage caused to the vehicle and his condition the man was taken to Royal Shrewsbury Hospital as a precaution for further checks.”
A man and a woman have been injured, one seriously, in a collision involving a motorcycle and a car in Shropshire this evening.
The incident happened in Upper Aston near Claverley at around 6.20pm earlier today (Friday). Two ambulances, a responder paramedic and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham with a critical care paramedic on board attended the scene.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived on scene to find a car and a motorcycle which had been involved in a significant collision.
“The motorcyclist, a man in his 20s, sustained serious leg and foot fractures in the crash. Crews administered pain relief to the man in order to make him more comfortable whilst they assessed and treated his injuries. The man was fully immobilised with a neck collar, spinal board and splints before being airlifted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham for further emergency treatment.
“The driver of the car, a woman in her 20s, sustained a fractured jaw. It is believed she was hit by a piece of motorbike which came through the car window that was open at the time of the crash. The woman was mechanically trapped in the car due to the damage caused to the driver’s door.
“Crews worked with the fire service to carefully extricate her from the car, whilst they continued treating her for her injury. She was fully immobilised with a neck collar and spinal board as a precaution before being taken by land ambulance on blue lights to Russells Hall Hospital.”
A baby has been taken to hospital following a collision involving a car in Great Barr this afternoon.
West Midlands Ambulance Service received several 999 calls to reports of a car which had collided with a baby’s push chair on the Walsall Road near the Scott Arms at 4.45pm earlier today (Friday). An ambulance was sent to the scene.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find a baby who had reportedly been thrown from a push chair following a collision with a car. An off duty nurse was providing first aid to the youngster.
“The baby had suffered a serious head injury and the ambulance crew quickly commenced treatment on scene before taking the baby to Birmingham Children’s Hospital by land ambulance on blue lights and sirens.
“Medics were pre alerted to arrival of the baby.”
Ends
Notes to Editor: I am afraid I have no further details regarding the patient’s age or sex. Please contact West Midlands Police for information about this case.
A motorcyclist has been airlifted to hospital following a road traffic collision in Shropshire this afternoon.
West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a collision involving a motorcycle and a car on the A49 in Bayston Hill at 1.10pm today (Friday). Two ambulances, a responder paramedic, a senior paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford with a MERIT trauma doctor on board attended the scene.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “On arrival at the scene crews found a car with significant damage and a motorcycle in a hedgerow. The motorcyclist, a 49 year old man, had come off his bike and was lying on the floor.
“Upon assessment, crews and the doctor found he had sustained serious head and abdominal injuries together with a serious fracture to his leg. The man was given pain relief before crews and the doctor worked carefully to immobilise him with a neck collar, spinal board, pelvic splint and leg splint to prevent further movement and injury.
“Once stabilised and packaged, the man was airlifted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, the regional trauma centre, for further emergency treatment. The trauma doctor travelled in the helicopter to continue treatment en route.
“The driver and passenger of the car, an elderly husband and wife, were assessed by crews at the scene. The woman suffered chest injuries from her seatbelt and was taken to Royal Shrewsbury Hospital as a precaution. Her husband was in shock but uninjured and accompanied his wife to hospital.
Port Vale Manager, Micky Adams and Player, Rob Taylor visited Stoke Ambulance Station today to celebrate the 65th Anniversary of the NHS with ambulance crews.
The visit, which was organised by Dave Mitchell, Paramedic and Union (GMB) Representative, saw Micky Adams cut a celebratory cake in recognition of the great job that ambulance staff carry out on a daily basis.
Talking about the visit Dave said: “We are really grateful that Micky and Rob took time out of their busy schedules to come along to the station to meet with ambulance staff in Stoke to help mark the 65th anniversary of the NHS.
“Ambulance personnel provide an invaluable service to the public, saving lives and helping those when they need it the most 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
“West Midlands Ambulance Service also provides medical cover for all the home matches played at Vale Park, ensuring that should the team ever unfortunately become ill whilst at the Stadium there is someone on hand to help.”
The visit which took place at 10am, saw a number of off duty staff as well as a lucky few on duty, who managed to get a few minutes between calls, come together and grab a piece of cake in celebration.
Micky added: “Our emergency services are unsung heroes and I’m certain that few people really understand the work they do, although they may need them at some point in their lives.
“I’m pleased that myself and Port Vale are able to support West Midlands Ambulance Service in this celebration, while also recognising the fantastic contribution that they make not only to the football club, but also the whole region.”
A woman has been airlifted to hospital after coming off a horse in Coventry this afternoon.
West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to a field off Hawkes Mill Lane, Allesley, at around 5.45pm earlier today (Thursday). An ambulance and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham attended the scene.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The woman, believed to be 44 years old, had been riding a horse when she was reportedly thrown to the ground.
“Crews assessed the woman and found she had sustained chest, leg and hip injuries. She was given pain relief to control her discomfort and to stabilise her condition before she was immobilised and airlifted to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire for further assessment and treatment.”
Thursday 4th July 2013 – 2.30pm – Suzie Fothergill.
With high temperatures being forecast for this weekend, West Midlands Ambulance Service are urging to public to take a few extra precautions to stay safe in the sun.
Steve Wheaton, WMAS Assistant Chief Ambulance Officer, said: “Historically, when the weather is good, there is greater demand on both the ambulance service and the NHS as a whole, particularly to alcohol-related incidents and conditions that can be exacerbated by heat changes such as respiratory and cardiac complaints.
“To ensure that no one’s fun is spoilt this weekend, the service is urging the public to follow a few simple steps:
If the temperatures do rise and you are out in the sun make sure you slap on plenty of sun cream, wear a hat and light, loose fitting cotton clothes. Avoid being out between 11am and 3pm, which is the hottest part of the day.
Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, to keep yourself hydrated. Remember, caffeine and alcohol can have the opposite effect and can actually dehydrate you.
If a barbecue is on the cards for this weekend, please ensure that it is lit safely and in the correct manner. Avoid burn injuries by using the correct utensils and don’t let children play too closely to the hot barbecue. Lastly, please make sure that all food is cooked through properly to avoid any food poisoning incidents.
Fancy a swim? Then please do so in a supervised swimming pool. No matter how tempting it is to cool off in rivers and lakes, this is very dangerous!
If you’re taking advantage of the sunshine and going out for a walk or hike in the countryside, please make sure you wear the appropriate footwear to avoid any slips or trips.
If you’re planning on hitting the road for a trip away, make sure you’re prepared for your journey, take food and drinks and remember to break the journey up. If driving in residential areas, please watch out for ice cream vans and any children that may distracted around them.
We would also ask bikers to be careful and wear appropriate safety clothing. Equally we ask car drivers to look out for bikers, as the number of these on the road will be significantly higher if the weather is good.”
Two new ambulance maintenance and preparation hubs are now operating in Worcestershire as part of plans to overhaul and modernise the ambulance service in the county.
The new centres have been created through the refurbishment of two traditional ambulance stations in Spetchley Road, Worcester and in Barnsley Hall Drive, Bromsgrove.
Both stations have been refurbished to house new offices, training rooms and fleet workshops. They have also become bases for new teams of dedicated Ambulance Fleet Assistants (AFAs) to clean, stock and prepare ambulances in readiness for the clinical staff. The AFAs also deal with any fleet issues during an ambulance crew’s shift, allowing the crew to continue with their work of looking after patients.
Worcester went ‘live’ as a hub on April 30th, followed by Bromsgrove on June 20th.
Above: Worcester
Above: Bromsgrove
Ambulances are prepared at the hubs in time for the start of the crews’ shifts. They then disperse to stations around Worcestershire from where they respond. West Midlands Ambulance Service is currently reviewing its estate of traditionally owned ambulance stations in the county; some have been put up for sale to be replaced by new smaller Community Ambulance Stations (CAS) which will be leased rather than owned and which will be greater in number to further improve response times.
In addition to the hubs, there are three Community Ambulance Stations in Worcester and one in Bromsgrove. CASes have also opened in Malvern and Stourport, while in Evesham the town’s traditional ambulance station which is currently up for sale continues to be used until refurbishment work on its replacement is completed. In Droitwich, the previous arrangement of sharing the town’s fire station continues while the search continues for alternative suitable premises. In Pershore, the previous arrangement of sharing premises with the town’s fire station will continue.
However, due to difficulties in finding suitable sites for two new Community Ambulance Stations in Kidderminster, the town’s traditional station in Stourport Road will remain for the foreseeable future. In addition, the traditional ambulance station in Cedar Park Road, Redditch will remain until all suitable premises are found for the three Community Ambulance Stations required to sufficiently serve the town.
The system of new hubs and Community Ambulance Stations is known as ‘Make Ready’; implemented by the then Staffordshire Ambulance Service more than 15 years ago resulting in it becoming one of the highest performing ambulance services in the country with some of the fastest response times.
The level of ambulance service being provided in Worcestershire is overall increasing with the introduction of advanced paramedics. They are already operating in Evesham, Pershore, Malvern, Kidderminster and Redditch. They will be introduced later to Droitwich and Stourport. Each team consists of five advanced paramedics to ensure 24/7 cover.
Dedicated to their respective geographical areas the advanced paramedics who carry the job title of “Community Paramedic” will have received additional training in advanced patient assessment and procedures. They will be able to treat many more patients at the scene rather than having them conveyed to an A&E Department.
In addition to responding to 999 calls, the role of the “Community Paramedic” will be to liaise with other areas of health and social care and ensure the population they serve receive the best health service possible while ensuring the ambulance service, through 999, is used appropriately.
Ends
Note to Editors: interview opportunities are available today (Thursday 4th July) only.
Two women and a man have been injured in a road traffic collision in Stoke on Trent in the early hours.
West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a crash involving two cars on Uttoxeter Road in Blythe Bridge just after 3.45am this morning (Thursday). Three ambulances, a responder paramedic at a paramedic area support officer attended the scene.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The drivers of both cars, a woman in her 30s and a man in his 50s, suffered head and neck injuries in the crash. A 69 year old woman passenger from one of the cars sustained head and chest injuries.
“Crews treated all three at the scene, immobilising them with neck collars and spinal boards, before they were taken by land ambulance to University Hospital North Staffordshire for further assessment and treatment.”
Wednesday 3rd July 2013 – 3.15pm – Suzie Fothergill.
Representatives from West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) have visited Burton and South Derbyshire College (BSDC) to award and thank students for helping to save lives within the community.
As part of their Public Service course, 38 students based at the College in Burton-upon-Trent have helped to assist WMAS with their lifesaving Staffordshire HeartStart project.
The project, which commenced in April 2012, aims to train 60,000 members of Staffordshire public in CPR and basic lifesaving first aid techniques over five years. So far approximately 9,500 people within the County have been trained in the free two-hour course, which is aimed at anyone ten years of age and over.
The Public Service students at the College have been fully engaged with the HeartStart project. All of the students undertook the lifesaving course and later helped to promote the courses within the community at a variety of venues, such as supermarkets, where they were able to highlight the benefits of having such skills.
Ten of the students also took the plunge and became HeartStart instructors and assisted the ambulance service in training over 500 people. This included running courses within the College itself, as well as assisting to deliver the course to a number of pupils at schools local to Burton.
At a certificate presentation, WMAS Community Response Manager, Matt Heward said: “The students have all done an excellent job assisting with the project. Not only do they now all have the skills and ability to potentially save a life themselves, but they have also helped to substantially increase the number of people within Burton that have acquired these skills.
“Burton has always been a very challenging area with regards to community engagement, so if just one life is saved as a result of their hard work, enthusiasm and dedication then that’s great news for the community.”
Robert Stevenson, BSDC Course Leader added: “As a Public Service course, it has been very exciting to work with West Midlands Ambulance Service. We are looking forward to introducing our new Public Service learners to the HeartStart scheme from this September, and to further growing the links that our current learners have created in the local area.”
A fleet of new ambulances is set to hit the region’s roads after West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) took delivery of over 100 new emergency vehicles.
The ambulance trust is continuing with a ‘significant’ investment in vehicle replacements following the delivery of 74 frontline ambulances and 30 Skoda 4×4 rapid response cars at a cost of £8millon.
WMAS currently has over 300 ambulances and 200 rapid response vehicles. With older vehicles being decommissioned as part of the fleet programme, WMAS will now have one of the most modern 999 fleet of any ambulance service in the country.
Craig Cooke, WMAS Support Services Director, said: “Our aim is to replace ageing vehicles and, in addition, to support our work on increasing ambulance capacity. The new vehicles will mean that for the first time the age of our 999 fleet is less than five years old for the core emergency fleet. This investment in new vehicles will help us provide high quality clinical services, improve the comfort and care to patients and offer a much better working environment for our staff.”
The new vehicles being delivered throughout the region will be replacements for older vehicles. However, the fleet team is currently completing the procurement of further emergency vehicles in addition to those being replaced. It is anticipated that these vehicles will be available for operational use later in the year.
The new Fiat Ducato ambulance will also be more environmentally friendly, featuring the latest innovations in fuel economy and low emissions.
Tuesday 2nd July 2013 – 2.05pm – Murray MacGregor.
Drivers faced delays on the M6 earlier after two very similar crashes within 300 yards of each other on the M6 motorway.
The first crash happened at 12.40pm on the southbound carriageway at junction 3a. The second was just south of that.
A paramedic officer came across the first incident and was backed up by an ambulance, a rapid response vehicle and a paramedic officer.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The first incident involved a Volkswagen Golf and an HGV.
“When crews arrived, they found the Golf up against the central reservation with damage on both sides of the car.
“The crash led to a temporary closure of the southbound carriageway.
“There were a 68 year old woman and a 67 year old man in the Golf. After assessment by ambulance staff, they were discharged with advice on what to do if their condition changed. The lorry driver, a 55 year old man, was also uninjured.
“Shortly after the vehicles were moved to the hard shoulder and the motorway was re-opened, a second crash happened at around 1.15pm. It happened approximately 300 yards down the motorway again involving a lorry and a car.
“Fortunately the two women in the car and the man driving the lorry were uninjured and no further assistance was required from ambulance staff.
“The wreckage was cleared and motorway traffic is getting back to normal.”
Tuesday 2nd July 2013 – 10.30am – Murray MacGregor.
West Midlands Ambulance Service continues to provide support to colleagues from West Midlands Fire Service at the scene of the massive blaze in Smethwick.
Ambulance staff have now treated a total of 13 people at the scene. Of those, 12 have been firefighters who have suffered a variety of minor injuries. Thankfully the number taken to hospital has not risen and remains at three.
The last casualty was a member of the public who cut his leg climbing over a fence close to the scene. He said that he had been trying to get closer to have a look. He had his laceration dressed by ambulance staff and did not require hospital treatment.
A single paramedic from the Trust’s Hazardous Area Response Team remains on scene to provide immediate medical assistance should it be required.
Martin Bennett is 56. He was a professional firefighter for ten years and worked for mountain rescue for 21 years. He has a degree from Swansea University in pre-hospital care, is currently studying for a post-graduate certificate in allergies and intends later to study for a Masters degree in clinical assessment.
His paid profession sees him teaching businesses First Aid and providing medical cover for organised events. Yet he still decides to spend much of his spare time volunteering to respond to medical emergencies, for he is a Community First Responder.
In 2005, he was one of more than a dozen people at Worcester ambulance station to attend the first ever Community First Responders training course conducted by the then Hereford & Worcester Ambulance Service. The course involved training with ambulance crews. Upon completion of the course and gaining his qualification he went ‘live’ and began to respond to medical emergencies at the behest of the ambulance service’s control room and while an emergency ambulance was en-route.
In his spare time, he puts himself ‘on-call’ for the ambulance service for around 250 hours a month. While waiting at home in Eardiston in Worcestershire for an emergency, he goes about his hobby of gardening and DIY. He attends approx. a hundred incidents a year; a recent case of his was his first successful resuscitation.
He said: “It was at a farm near Kidderminster. A 76 year old man who was cleaning out the horses was found face-down by his son. He had had a cardiac arrest. A paramedic in a rapid response vehicle, an ambulance crew and I all worked on the patient. A couple of days later I heard from the paramedic that the man was still alive. This was a team effort. It started with those on the ground and continued at hospital.”
Martin recalled other incidents during his volunteering career: “My first job of note was to a man with chest pain. He was quite poorly and I was bricking it when I got there!
“Another was to a very poorly three year old boy with asthma with a panicking mother who didn’t know what to do. I gave him oxygen and got him breathing better averting a possible cardiac arrest.
“And there was a man with a lung disease who was turning blue. He also received oxygen, pinked up and we managed to avoid him having a nasty event.”
Martin describes his volunteering as a Community First Responder as a vocation: “I get a great buzz from it. The point of having a Community First Responder is COMMUNITY RESPONDING. It is going to an individual with the skills that enable you in the very short-term to save their life. That’s a big thing.”
For more information about becoming a Community First Responder or to become one yourself:
visit http://www.wmas.nhs.uk and find the ‘CFR’ page under ‘About us’
visit http://www.hwcfr.org.uk
call Noel Orbell, Community Response Manager on 07980 094 808
or call the CFR admin office on 01384 215 855 or email CFRAdmin@wmas.nhs.uk
Monday 1st July 2013 – 11.00pm – Murray MacGregor.
A motorcyclist has been airlifted to hospital after suffering potentially serious injuries after colliding with the back of a tractor and trailer in South Shropshire.
The crash happened at about 7.50pm on the A4117 at a location given as just past Angel Bank Garage near the village of Angel Bank between Ludlow and Cleobury Mortimer.
An ambulance, two rapid response vehicles and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham were sent to the scene.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, ambulance staff found a motorcycle that had suffered very significant damage.
“The rider, who was in his mid 20s had suffered a nasty injury to his head near his eye. He also had possible fractures to his forearm and leg.
“Although conscious, crews were concerned about a head injury and possible internal injuries.
“After his condition was stabilised at the scene, he was airlifted to the Major Trauma Centre at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham.
“Had he not been wearing full protective equipment, the level of injury could have been very much more severe.
Monday 1st July 2013 – 10.20am – Murray MacGregor.
West Midlands Ambulance Service continues to provide support to colleagues from West Midlands Fire Service at the scene of a massive blaze in Smethwick.
A total of 11 firefighters have been treated by ambulance service staff for a variety of minor injuries, though three were taken to hospital overnight. Injuries include heat exhaustion, injuries to eyes and an ankle as well as one minor burn.
The Trust’s Hazardous Area Response Team remains on scene with two ambulance officers to provide support.
Local residents continue to be asked to keep doors and windows shut as a precaution, but there is not thought to be any risk to health from the fire.
The plume from the blaze can be seen from as far away as Warwickshire.
West Midlands Ambulance Service can confirm it remains at the scene of a serious fire in Smethwick.
West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to premises in Dartmouth Road, Smethwick at approximately 11.30pm (SUNDAY).
Emergency resources including ambulances, together with paramedic officers and the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) were sent to the scene.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews responded to a major fire at a re-cycling plant in Smethwick overnight.
“Ambulance staff have treated 9 patients for injuries received at the scene. Three of these patients were later conveyed to a local hospital as a precautionary measure.”
