Month: August 2015

Sunday 16^th August 2015 – 10am – Chris Kowalik.

Two men were trapped after the car they were in turned upside down off the M6.
West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the southbound carriageway near Corley Services shortly before 12.25am today.

Two ambulance crews, the West Midlands CARE team, a paramedic area support officer in a rapid response vehicle, the Hazardous Area Response team and the MERIT Trauma Team consisting of a trauma doctor and critical care practitioner attended. Police and the fire service also attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The car left the motorway, hit some trees and landed upside down.

“One of the men was trapped inside the car, the other was underneath it. They are both in their twenties.

“All the emergency services worked very well together in what was a very dark location. The first police officers on scene gave excellent care to the two men providing oxygen to one of the men who was struggling to breathe and supporting the head of the other. The fire service helped free them from their very badly damaged car.

“Ambulance crews fully immobilised one of the men who had a head injury. The other had a suspected head injury and was anaesthetised by doctors on scene and his airway maintained.

“Both men were taken to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire.”

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.

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Saturday 15^th August 2015 – 5.30pm – Chris Kowalik.

 

A woman has been taken to a major trauma centre after suffering serious injuries in a collision with a car in the Black Country.
West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Corngreaves Road in Cradley Heath shortly after 3.50pm 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 Cosford carrying a trauma doctor and critical care practitioner attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The woman who is in her seventies, had arm and leg fractures and was briefly unconscious following the collision.
“Splints were applied to her fractured limbs, she was immobilised and given analgesia before being taken by land ambulance to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.”

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Saturday 15^th August 2015 – 1pm – Chris Kowalik.

 

A family of four have gone to hospital for precautionary checks after their car ended up against a crash barrier following a collision with a heavy goods vehicle on the M6.
West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the southbound carriageway at junction 11 at 11.10am today.

Two ambulances and a paramedic area support officer attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Following the collision with the lorry, the car spun then hit the crash barrier on the hard shoulder.

“Two children were in the back, their parents in the front.
“The father who as driving the car declined treatment but he had a pre-existing back problem. He was taken by ambulance to Walsall Manor Hospital with his daughter who had neck pain and who was immobilised on a spinal board.
“The other ambulance took to the same hospital the mother who was the front seat passenger who had neck pain and who was also immobilised. It also took her son who didn’t appear injured but who was going to have further precautionary checks at the hospital.”

Picture: West Midlands Ambulance Service

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Friday 14^th August 2015 – 10pm – Chris Kowalik.

 

A badly injured motorcyclist has been taken to a major trauma centre after a crash with a horse box north of Craven Arms.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the A49 near Wistanstow at 7pm today.

An advanced community paramedic in a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic area support officer in a rapid response vehicle, an ambulance crew, the MERIT trauma team consisting of a trauma doctor and critical care practitioner and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham in Worcestershire attended. A passing community first responder also stopped to help.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The motorcyclist had a serious head injury, a chest injury and multiple fractures. At the scene, the ambulance crew decompressed his chest and the trauma doctor anaesthetised him and maintained his airway.

“He was taken by land ambulance initially to Royal Shrewsbury Hospital for a blood transfusion, then transferred to the major trauma centre at Royal Stoke University Hospital for further treatment.”

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Friday 14^th August 2015 – 4.30pm – Chris Kowalik.

Three people have been injured and taken to hospital after a crash in Warwickshire.
West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the junction of the B4109 and Bazzard Road, Wolvey shortly before 2.45pm today.

Three ambulances and two rapid response vehicles, one driven by a paramedic area support officer attended. An off-duty paramedic also helped.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “A man in his fifties who was in one of the cars had chest and back pain. He was immobilised with the use of a spinal board and neck collar and was taken to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire.

“In the other car were a man and a woman. The man who is in his seventies had chest pain and a suspected broken collarbone. Crews gave him pain relief intravenously. The woman who is in her sixties had chest pain. They were both immobilised and also taken to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire.”

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Friday 14th August 2105 – 3pm – Steve Parry.

A man has been released from exercise equipment and taken to hospital following an incident at a Black Country gym this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service received the unusual call-out request to a gym in the centre of West Bromwich at just after 1pm.

West Midlands Ambulance Service sent an ambulance; a paramedic in a rapid response vehicle and the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews were called to a gym following reports that a man had been working-out when he became trapped by a heavy leg weight machine. Bystanders made attempts to free the man from the machine, but he was eventually released with the assistance of the fire service.

“The man, believed to be in his forties, was treated for a fractured ankle.

“Crews carefully removed the patient from the machine and he was immobilised with the use of a leg splint. The patient was given pain relief before being taken to Sandwell General Hospital for further assessment and treatment.”

 

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Friday 14th August 2015 – 2pm – Steve Parry.

A man was trapped in his car after it was involved in a collision with another vehicle in Kingstanding earlier today.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Finchley Road in Kingstanding at just after 11.30am.

Two ambulances together with two paramedic support officers and a paramedic in a rapid response vehicle attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews responded to a road traffic collision involving two cars in Kingstanding this morning.

“A man, believed to be in his fifties, received leg and pelvic injuries. He was immobilised with use of a pelvic binder, neck collar and spinal board. The patient was also given pain relief before being conveyed to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

“A further male also travelling in the same car was assessed for minor injuries before being taken to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.”

 

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Friday 14th August 2015 – 1.30pm – Steve Parry.

A van, lorry and car collided on the M6 near Great Barr this morning injuring three people and bringing both carriageways of the motorway to a standstill.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was alerted to the incident between junctions 7 – 6 southbound at just after 10.30am.

Three ambulances and two ambulance support officers together with air ambulance medics travelling in a response car from their Coventry base, attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “It was reported that an articulated lorry crossed the motorway central reservation and collided with a van and car. The first medical responder on scene was an off-duty paramedic from the East Midlands Ambulance Service who found the van driver trapped in his vehicle. He had to be released with the help of the fire service.

“A man in his forties driving the van suffered chest, back and pelvic injuries together with a fractured arm.  He was immobilised with the use of a neck collar and spinal board and given pain relief. He was taken by land ambulance to the trauma unit at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital with a doctor also travelling.

“The lorry driver was treated for chest pain and taken by ambulance to the City Hospital for further assessment and treatment.

“A man travelling as a passenger in the car received minor injuries and was taken to Sandwell Hospital for assessment.”

 

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Friday 14^th August 2015 – 9.45am – Chris Kowalik.

 

It was in the early hours in heavy rain that West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Bedworth to a man whose leg was impaled on a metal railing.

The 999 call came in shortly after 2.35am to King Street.

A paramedic area support officer in a rapid response vehicle, and ambulance crew and the MERIT trauma team consisting of a trauma doctor and critical care practitioner attended. Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service also attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The man was stuck several feet up. The railing had gone through his right thigh.

“It was a difficult rescue for the emergency services because of where the man was and because of the driving rain at the time. The man was given pain relief and an anti-haemorrhage agent.

“On this occasion, it was deemed safe to lift him from the railing and he was taken to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire.”

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Thursday 13^th August 2015 – 4.45pm – Chris Kowalik.

A man in his seventies has suffered a head injury in a collision with a car in the Black Country.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Bilston Street, Sedgley, shortly before 3.40pm today.

An ambulance crew attended. A passing Community First Responder also stopped to help.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The man had a head injury and was experiencing head pain. He was immobilised and was taken to the trauma unit at Russells Hall Hospital.”

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Thursday 13^th August 2015 – 1.50pm – Chris Kowalik.

 

A man has been flown to a major trauma centre after a bale spike tine went into his right knee.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to a farm near Whixhall shortly after 10.20am today.

A paramedic area support officer in a rapid response vehicle, an ambulance crew and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The tractor spike went into his right knee.
“The man who is in his eighties was conscious and stable throughout the rescue. The fire service cut the spike free from the tractor, but it remained in his leg. Ambulance crews managed the wound with the spike in situ and gave him fluids, analgesia and oxygen.Preparations were in place in case of a haemorrhage and he was flown to Royal Stoke University Hospital.”

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Wednesday 12th August 2015 – 8.40pm – Chris Kowalik.

Two adults and a child have been taken to hospital following a road traffic collision on the A41 at Hinstock this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called just after 3.30pm. Three ambulances were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews responded to a road traffic collision involving a car and lorry.

“The car driver, a man in his sixties, was found to have a reduced level of consciousness when crews arrived at the scene. He was stabilised and taken to the Royal Stoke University Hospital for further assessment.

“A four year old boy who was a passenger was treated for a facial laceration. The child was also taken to the same hospital.

“The lorry driver was treated for lower back pain.”

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Wednesday 12^th August 2015 – 2.30pm – Steve Parry.

A midday collision involving a car and lorry resulted in an elderly driver escaping serious injury in Shirley today.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Olton Road, Shirley, at just before 12 noon. An ambulance together with a paramedic in a rapid response car attended the scene. An off-duty paramedic had also stopped to assist at the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Emergency services arrived to find a car had been involved in a collision with a lorry.

“A man in his late eighties and the driver of the car had managed to extract himself from his vehicle as crews arrived. He was assessed by medics and was found to be suffering chest pain and superficial lacerations. The patient was taken to Heartlands Hospital for further assessment and treatment.

“The lorry driver was also assessed at the scene but didn’t require hospital treatment.”

ENDS

 

Tuesday 12^th August 2015 – 9am – Chris Kowalik.

With the morning traffic building up and being held up, West Midlands Ambulance Service worked as quickly as possible to deal with a woman in an overturned car near Birmingham Airport.

A paramedic area support officer in a rapid response vehicle was first on scene in Bickenhill Lane, Solihull following a call to the control room shortly before 6.25am today. A community paramedic in a rapid response vehicle and an ambulance crew also attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “There had been a two car collision resulting in one car landing on its roof. Its driver, a woman in her forties, was sitting in the driver’s seat, upside down, still with her seatbelt on.

Picture: West Midlands Ambulance Service

“Ambulance staff crawled in to initially assess her. When the fire service arrived they helped the attending ambulance crews and police get her out. She was assessed at the scene and wasn’t found to have any serious injuries.

“She was stabilised, immobilised and taken to Heartlands Hospital. The other driver wasn’t injured.
“Crews worked as quickly as they could to clear the scene.”

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Wednesday 12^th August 2015 – 8.15am – Chris Kowalik.

A Worcestershire MP has visited one of the county’s ambulance hubs and shown his support for the work of the service.

Nigel Huddleston, MP for Mid Worcestershire, paid a visit to the hub in Spetchley Road, Worcester where he met members of staff and was shown the variety of different functions based there including ‘Make Ready’ where ambulances are prepared for their shift, fleet workshops, management and administration.

Michelle Brotherton, registered paramedic and General Manager for the West Mercia area said: “We explained everything we did and gave Mr. Huddleston a good rundown of our service provision for the county, including staff and fleet numbers. He was very impressed and very supportive.
“He understood the role of our volunteer community first responders and the importance of defibrillators in the community; areas he will help to promote.

Pictured above left-to-right: Nigel Huddleston MP, Michelle Brotherton, Nicholas Montandon (assistant are manager for Worcestershire)

“We look forward to him visiting again when he will join an ambulance crew for a shift.”

Mr. Huddleston said: “I really enjoyed my visit to the Ambulance hub and meeting Michelle and the team.  They often work under difficult and challenging circumstances but everyone I met was hugely enthusiastic about their job.  I was particularly impressed with the new ambulances and equipment.  It is reassuring to know that such a dedicated, professional and well equipped team will be on hand should we ever be in need of their services.”

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Wednesday 12^th August 2015 – 8am – Chris Kowalik.

A man has been blue-lighted to a major trauma centre after the car he was driving hit a tree in Whitney-on-Wye.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the B4350 shortly before 12.25am today.

An ambulance crew, a paramedic area support officer, a BASICS emergency doctor from Mercia Accident Rescue Service (MARS) and the MERIT trauma team consisting of a trauma doctor and critical care practitioner attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Such was the condition of the man, who is in his twenties, that he had to be removed from the car as quickly as possible.

“Units of blood were brought to the scene from Hereford County Hospital by the MERIT trauma team. At the scene, CPR was performed on the driver, his airway was secured and two shocks were delivered by a defibrillator.

“He was given the blood that came from Hereford. He was also given fluids  and a haemorrhage control agent.

“He was then taken on blue lights to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham. Whilst in the care of West Midlands Ambulance Service, the man had been resuscitated.”

Mercia Accident Rescue Service (MARS) is a group of highly trained and experienced pre-hospital practitioners who provide enhanced immediate medical care to the people of Herefordshire and Worcestershire on a voluntary basis in support of West Midlands Ambulance Service. It currently comprises 15 doctors and two advanced nurse practitioners. The scheme is a registered charity supported by local fundraising and affiliated with the British Association for Immediate Care (BASICS). For more information go to http://www.marsbasics.org.uk

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Tuesday 11^th August 2015 – 8.10pm – Chris Kowalik.

 

A man who had driven into a pond was so calm, he sat in his car smoking his pipe as it filled up with water.
West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to a farm in Loxley shortly before 2.50pm today.

An advanced community paramedic, a paramedic area support officer and an ambulance crew attended. Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service also attended.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The man who is in his eighties had gone to the farm to fish in its lake. After his car ended up in the water, he smoked his pipe and chatted to the farmer who went into the lake in his waders. Firefighters carried him from his car back onto land.

“He wasn’t hurt or even cold but ambulance crews removed his clothing to ensure he didn’t get cold and he was driven home in the ambulance.”

Pictures: West Midlands Ambulance Service

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Tuesday 11^th August 2015 – 8.05pm – Chris Kowalik.

A man who fell from his quadbike in Birmingham has suffered a head injury and taken to a major trauma centre.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the junction of West Boulevard and Quinton Road West in Quinton shortly after 6.45pm today.

An advanced community paramedic, a paramedic area support officer, an ambulance crew and the MERIT trauma team consisting of a trauma doctor and critical care practitioner attended.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The man who wasn’t wearing a helmet fell from his quadbike suffering a head injury.

“He was sedated at the scene and, accompanied by the MERIT team, was quickly taken to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital and its awaiting consultant anaesthetist.”

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Tuesday 11^th August 2015 – 11.30am – John Hawker.

If you have ever suffered with a nosebleed, a laceration or an insect bite did you know what to do?

We have put together three short films advising the public on what to do if any of these things happen to you.  Paramedics from Warwick, Ian Inglesant and Will Tansey, have been on camera providing the public with some quick advice and tips on what to do.

Area Support Officer, Ian, said “Should you be unlucky enough to suffer a nosebleed, a cut or an insect sting or bite, do you know what the best course of action is?  By learning some basic first aid the public will hopefully be able to look after themselves and their family member.

“We have tried to be as down to earth as we can and explain things in a way that everyone can understand.  Obviously, we can’t cover every possible scenario, but by giving the basics, people should be able to treat minor injuries and decide if they need to seek further help.”

Will, who has been a paramedic for seven years said: “Hopefully people will find the videos useful.  We know that some people panic when there is blood involved and think they need to call 999 immediately.  However, if someone treats their minor injury themselves, the call handler or ambulance crew who would have been dealing with their minor issue will be free to deal with a real life threatening situation.”

The three videos will be issued over the next few days and available on Twitter @officialwmas, and facebook (officialwmas) and also our website www.wmas.nhs.uk

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Tuesday 11^th August 2015 – 10.30am – Chris Kowalik.

A summer ball has been organised to help raise funds to send two West Midlands Ambulance Service paramedics back to earthquake-hit Nepal.

In May of this year Ed Hullah who is based in Craven Arms and Pershore-based Phil Llewellyn visited the country following its first earthquake 80km north-west of the capital Kathmandu. At the time, their mission was to help with the humanitarian rescue and during their visit, there was a second earthquake near the Chinese border.

Since then, they set up ‘Rebuild Nepal’, a not-for-profit organisation raising funds to help rebuild the villages most affected by helping to provide safer earthquake-resistant houses and public buildings with links to different relief projects throughout Nepal.

As part of that fundraising, an event is being held at the Bank House Hotel in Bransford, Worcestershire from 7.30pm on Friday 25^th September. In addition to live music, a raffle and pig roast, it will also feature a presentation by Phil Llewellyn on his recent trip to Kaule.

Tickets are £20 and are available from:

The Bank House on 01886 833 551

Or Nicky Masters via nicky.masters@gmail.com or 07914 143 602

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Please help Shropshire Clinical Commissioning Group with their research:

More details from their website here:

http://www.shropshireccg.nhs.uk/news/patients-asked-to-share-their-views-of-major-hip-and-knee-surgery-3132/

Monday 10th August 2015 – 9.55pm – Murray MacGregor.

A man who was helping to cut down trees was literally moments from death when ambulance staff arrived.

The man who was in his 50s was at a property in Erdington when he fell from an A-frame aluminium ladder, landing on it, leaving it bent from the force of the fall.

When a paramedic on a rapid response vehicle and a paramedic area support officer arrived less than five minutes after the call, the man was about to go into full cardiac arrest and would have had only minutes to live if he hadn’t received urgent treatment.

The incident happened at about 5.25pm on Monday afternoon.

Area Support Officer, James Williams, said: “This was almost a very tragic accident. One minute the man was helping to cut trees, the next the ladder had slipped and he was on top of it.

“The paramedic who was here first provided life-saving treatment for his collapsed lung; if she hadn’t acted quickly he would have had a cardiac arrest.

“After treatment he perked up remarkably but still had a serious chest and abdominal injuries and spinal tenderness.”

An ambulance and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Staffordshire arrived shortly afterwards to provide advanced pain relief.

The man was taken to Heartlands Hospital on blue lights and although he had suffered serious injuries, his prognosis appeared positive.

Note to Editors
Due to the location, we are not able to give out any more exact details of where the incident took place for fear of identifying the patient – we hope you understand.

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Monday 10th August 2015 – 9.20pm – Murray MacGregor.

A cyclist is recovering in a major trauma centre from serious chest injuries after being found unconscious in a bus lane.

The man, who was in his 30s was discovered outside Knights Pharmacy at the Winyates Centre in Redditch at about 6.20pm on Monday evening.

A rapid response vehicle was on scene within seven minutes of the 999 call and was backed up by an ambulance.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “When the man was asked what had happened, he wasn’t able to tell the ambulance staff but thought he might have hit a pot hole?

“The man had several serious rib fractures, a broken collar bone and lots of scrapes to his body as he was only wearing shorts and a t-shirt. He also had grazing to his head as he wasn’t wearing a helmet. His bike was relatively undamaged.

“The man was given strong pain relief before being placed on a stretcher and taken to the major trauma centre at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham.”
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Monday 10th August 2015 – 8.45pm – Murray MacGregor.

A young woman has been immobilised with neck and back pain after the car she was in spun into a lamppost after a collision with a coach.

The incident happened on Stafford Road in Fordhouses, Wolverhampton at about 5.40pm on Monday afternoon.

A rapid response vehicle and two ambulances were sent to the scene. They were joined by an off duty senior paramedic officer who came across the incident.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “When crews arrived they were told that the car and coach had touched which resulted in the car spinning out of control.

“The woman driver, who was in her 20s, was out of the vehicle and sitting on the steps of the coach. She was immobilised using a neck collar and spinal board due to her neck, back and chest pain.

“A woman in her 20s on the bus had abdominal pain. Both women were taken to New Cross Hospital for further assessment and treatment.”
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Monday 10th August 2015 – 7.00pm – Murray MacGregor.

A cyclist who wasn’t wearing a helmet has had an incredibly fortunate escape after avoiding serious injury despite smashing the windscreen of a car.

The collision happened outside the Mercedes Garage on Tyburn Road in Erdington, Birmingham at around 6.55am this morning (Monday).

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

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “When we arrived, we saw the car windscreen and feared the worst, but to our surprise the rider was up and about and did not appear to have any significant injuries.

“Due to the circumstances of the collision, the man was taken to Good Hope Hospital as a precaution for further monitoring.

“When you consider the level of damage, it is astonishing that he wasn’t badly hurt; all the more so when the crews realised that he hadn’t been wearing a cycle helmet

“Only yesterday another cyclist in Telford suffered serious head injuries after he fell from his bike after hitting a pothole and landed on the back of his head. He was airlifted to a major trauma centre.

“Whilst it is up to the individual to decide whether they wear one or not, we are strongly in favour of their use.”
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Monday 10th August 2015 – 5.55pm – Murray MacGregor.

A motorcyclist has suffered a broken leg and ‘gravel rash’ after coming off his motorcycle after a collision with a van on Spaghetti Junction.

The crash happened on the slip road from the northbound M6 on the City bound A38M at around 3.15pm on Monday afternoon.

A paramedic area support officer was first on scene and was backed up by an ambulance.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The 30 year old rider was wearing a helmet, leather jacket but only had jeans on when he came off his bike after the collision.

“He suffered probable breaks to his lower right leg and foot. He also had abrasions to his legs, hands and forearms.

“The man was treated at the scene before being taken to City Hospital in Birmingham.

“We would always encourage those riding motorcycles to wear a helmet and full ‘leathers’ whatever the weather as they give considerable protection if you are unlucky enough to come off your bike, whoever’s fault it might be.

“The van driver was uninjured.”
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Monday 10^th August 2015 – 10.35am – John Hawker.

The driver of a flatbed van was trapped by his legs for an hour this morning at a serious RTC on the motorway.

The crash occurred on the M42, between junction 9 and 10, Southbound, Tamworth at around 7.45am.  Two ambulances, a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic officer and the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find four vehicles that are believed to have been in a collision.

“The driver of a flatbed van was trapped in the cab of his vehicle by his legs.  The man, believed to be in his early 20’s, received emergency treatment at the scene by medics, who worked with the fire service to ensure the patient was released as quickly and safely as possible.  The man was released from the vehicle in around 60 minutes.

“The man had received pain relief for his injuries, believed to include a fractured leg.  Once the patient’s condition was stabilised he was airlifted to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire for further treatment.

“The air ambulance landed on the motorway to access the incident which meant the carriageway was closed in both directions.

“The passenger in the flatbed, a man believed to be in his 20’s, managed to get out of the vehicle and was treated for neck and back pain by medics.  The man was transferred by ambulance to Heartlands Hospital for further treatment.

“The man driving a van involved in the crash, was treated at the scene for minor injuries.  Due to the nature of the collision he was transferred to Good Hope Hospital fur further treatment.

“The drivers of two HGV vehicles were checked over at the scene by ambulance crews but did not require hospital treatment.

“Emergency services staff worked seamlessly at the scene to ensure the patients received the best possible treatment as quickly and safely as possible.”

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We have no further details on this incident.

 

 

Monday 10^th August 2015 – 7am – Chris Kowalik.

 

A motorcyclist is considered lucky not to have been badly injured after he was dragged along the road by a car he’d collided with in Norton Canes.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Lime Lane shortly after 3.35pm on Sunday.

An advanced community paramedic in a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic area support officer in a rapid response vehicle and an ambulance crew attended. An off-duty nurse who was in the area at the time also stopped to help.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The motorcyclist, who is in his thirties, had just cuts and bruises that needed cleaning. Other than that, he had no obvious injuries, but because of the nature of the collision, he was taken to Walsall Manor Hospital to be checked over.”

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Sunday 9^th August 2015 – 9.50pm – Chris Kowalik.

A man has broken his ankle in a fall on the Roaches in north Staffordshire.
West Midlands Ambulance Service was called at 1.55pm today.

A 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: “A man in his twenties had fallen 25 feet landing on his ankle, breaking it.

“Ambulance crews worked with mountain rescue teams to reach the man. Access by foot was a 15 minute walk from the tea rooms. The air ambulance landed on a ridge.

“The man’s injury was treated at the scene and he was given pain relief before being flown to Royal Stoke University Hospital.”

Picture: Midlands Air Ambulance

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Sunday 9^th August 2015 – 9.15pm – Chris Kowalik.

A man who wasn’t wearing a cycle helmet has suffered a serious head injury after falling from his bike in Telford.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to St. George’s Road Industrial Estate in Donnington shortly before 6.30pm today.

Two BASICS emergency doctors, two ambulance crews and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Staffordshire attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The man, who is in his twenties, fell from his bike after hitting a pothole. He landed on the back of his head.
“He was anaesthetised and his airway was maintained by doctors, he was given pain relief and was immobilised on a scoop stretcher.
“He was then flown to the major trauma centre at Royal Stoke University Hospital.”

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Sunday 9^th August 2015 – 8.30pm – Chris Kowalik.

Three collisions next to each other and the potential for 17 casualties could have spelt trouble on the M5 today …

… but the good work of the ambulance crews at the scene meant most of those involved were dealt with and discharged very quickly.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the northbound carriageway between junctions 6 and 7 at 2.35pm today.

Two ambulance crews, and two paramedic officers attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The collisions were all minor, but they were all near each other at about the same time and brought with them the potential for a number of patients.

“Most of them were quickly checked over and discharged at the scene, only one was taken to Worcestershire Royal Hospital having been immobilised for spinal pain.”

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Sunday 9^th August 2015 – 12.30pm – Chris Kowalik.

A visitor to a motorcycle rally in Warwickshire has been resuscitated and taken to hospital after suffering a cardiac arrest.

The man who is in his fifties was involved in the Bulldog Bash at Long Marston Airfield where he went to the First Aid Tent with breathing difficulties. There, he had a cardiac arrest and collapsed.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called shortly after 7am today and sent an advanced community paramedic in a rapid response vehicle and an ambulance crew to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The event’s own medical team began CPR and used the defibrillator they had with them. Ambulance crews then went on to continue with treatment and the man began to regain consciousness on site.

“He was then taken to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire.”

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Sunday 9^th August 2015 – 12noon – Chris Kowalik.

Two men were injured when the car they were in hit a tree in Solihull in the early hours.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the junction of Streetsbrook Road and Sharmans Cross Road shortly after 1.15am.

Two ambulance crews, an advanced community paramedic in a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic area support officer in a rapid response vehicle and the West Midlands CARE Team attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The two men are both in their twenties. The driver had a broken arm and a tender abdomen. He was immobilised with the use of a spinal board and neck collar and was taken to Heartlands Hospital by ambulance accompanied by the CARE team.

“The passenger who had managed to get himself out of the car after the crash, didn’t appear injured but, as a precaution due to the nature of the crash, he was also immobilised and was taken to the same hospital by ambulance and accompanied by the community paramedic.”

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.

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Saturday 8^th August 2015 – 7pm – Chris Kowalik.

 

A woman who was trapped in her car after a crash in Herefordshire, has been flown to a major trauma centre.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to a two-car collision on the main Presteigne to Kington road at Titley shortly after 4.15pm today.

An advanced community paramedic in a rapid response vehicle, an ambulance crew and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham attended. The Welsh Ambulance Service also attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The woman who is in her seventies was cut free by the fire service. She had chest and abdominal injuries. She was immobilised, was intravenously given pain relief and was flown to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

“A man in his eighties who was driving that car had managed to get himself out. He had pains to his chest and a knee. He was taken to Hereford County Hospital.

“Two men in the other car both had back pain. They were both immobilised and taken to Hereford County Hospital.
“Both cars were badly damaged in the crash.”

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Saturday 8th August 2015 – 9.50am – Murray MacGregor.

A woman has been anaesthetised at the scene of an early morning road traffic collision which left the car with a ‘V’ shape in the bonnet.

The crash happened at about 6.35am on Saturday morning outside Marlborough Court on New Road, Bromsgrove.

An ambulance, a paramedic area support officer and the MERIT trauma doctor were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, ambulance crews found a car that had collided with metal bollards and railing causing considerable front end damage.

“The woman driving, who was in her early 20’s was semi-conscious.

“Due to her medical condition and concerns about a possible head injury, the doctor and critical care paramedic from the MERIT vehicle anaesthetised her at the scene before travelling with her in the ambulance to the Major Trauma Centre at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham.”
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Friday 7th August 2015 – 9.33pm – Murray MacGregor.

A man has escaped what could have been an horrific leg injury after the change in his pocket bought him good luck.

The 60 year old was using a circular saw to build some decking in his back garden when it kicked back and the blade dug into his leg.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the address just outside Uttoxeter at 4.20pm on Friday afternoon. A rapid response vehicle was on scene within six minutes and was backed up by an ambulance.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “When crews arrived they found a man who had suffered a six inch long gash to his left thigh. At it’s deepest, it was almost an inch deep.

“However, although a serious wound, it could have been considerably worse had the blade not caught the coins in the man’s pocket first. A number of coins had been badly damaged, but they had stopped the blade going deeper into the man’s leg.

“From an initial assessment, it looked like the cut had not caused serious damage to the muscle which should allow a good recovery.

“The wound was dressed before he was taken to Royal Stoke University Hospital to have the wound closed.”

Note to Editors
Due to the location of the house, we cannot give you any further details of the address as this would identify the patient – sorry.

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Friday 7^th August 2015 – 2.30pm – Claire Brown.

A man who sustained 13% burns after hitting a power cable whilst gardening has been airlifted to a major trauma centre for further specialist burns treatment.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a man who had suffered burns after touching a power cable in the garden of a property near to Coton Green Primary School in Tamworth just before 10.00am this morning (Friday). An ambulance, a paramedic area support officer, a community paramedic and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Tatenhill attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “When ambulance staff arrived they found a 56-year-old man who had sustained nasty electrical burns to his left arm, shoulder and chest after reportedly hitting a power cable whilst using gardening tools.

“The man was given pain relief and anti-sickness drugs to help stabilise his condition before they applied cooling burns dressings to his wounds. Ambulance staff also carried out checks on his heart to rule out any cardiac concerns following the incident.

“Once ambulance staff were happy he was stable the man was transferred by land ambulance to the awaiting helicopter which had landed on the school field nearby.

“The man was then airlifted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, a specialist trauma and burns unit, for further treatment.”

ENDS

Friday, 7^th August 2015 – 1.15pm – Jamie Arrowsmith.

West Midlands Ambulance Service paramedic Steve Watkins swapped patients for pupils on a return visit to Nepal as he passed on expert advice on how to cope in the early stages of an emergency.

Steve, based in Stoke, originally visited Nepal in April to help search for survivors when the first of two devastating earthquakes struck the country but his mission on this occasion was very different.

A member of Search and Rescue Assistance in Disasters (SARAID), Steve’s return was arranged when the charity Global Action Nepal (GAN) asked for help and assistance in being able to react better whilst waiting for international aid should another disaster ever strike.

Approximately 400 graduates from all over Nepal applied to take part in the week-long training course, which was eventually whittled down to about 50. The idea now is that having gained as much knowledge as possible from Steve and his colleagues, they can pass on the information to as many Nepalese residents as possible across the course of the next five months.

Speaking about the trip, Steve said: “It was a really rewarding experience to see the group absorbing the information, they were fantastic.

“They certainly knew more at the end of the week than the beginning and hopefully now they will be able to pass on their new found knowledge to many more people.”

Some of the topics taught included medical advice, how to safely search rubble piles and disaster preparation.

“Each day we would start by doing a test on the information taught the previous day and it was good to see they were listening to what we were saying,” Steve added.

“I’d never done anything like this before so there was a bit of thinking on my feet at times but when I saw them working together in groups to try and answer questions or overcome problems they had been set, it was a great feeling.

“I gave all of the group my contact details and will be happy to help them however I can should they have any questions.

“We still have volunteers in the country so we’re getting feedback about how they are getting on and I hope to plan another visit before the end of the year so I can see for myself how they are progressing.

“There are clear signs of recovery in the country which is great to see and I just hope for the sake of the people that they can get themselves back on their feet without any future disasters to overcome.”

Ends

Notes to Editors:

Top picture: Steve Watkins teaches Nepalese youngsters how to cope with a disaster.

Bottom pictures: The youngsters put their new found knowledge to the test.

Please credit all pictures to Andre Carrando

Friday 7^th August 2015 – 9.00am – Claire Brown.
A man was at the centre of a difficult rescue operation last night after falling into a dry dock and breaking both ankles in Warwickshire.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a man who had fallen approximately 10ft into a dry dock on Oxford Canal in Fenny Compton, Warwickshire just after 9.00pm last night (Thursday). An ambulance, a paramedic area support officer and a BASICS doctor were sent to the scene and were joined by fire and police colleagues.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “When the emergency services arrived they were faced with a 59-year-old man who was at the bottom of a dry dock 10ft down lying in about a foot of water.

“Ambulance staff and the medic, upon assessment, found he had sustained nasty fractures to both ankles. They administered pain relief to the man to help stabilise his condition before his legs were placed into vacuum splints and he was fully immobilised.

“Working closely with the fire service the man was then placed onto a carry sheet and carefully lifted up out of the dock using rope rescue techniques.

“Back on dry land, the man was then carried to the awaiting ambulance before he was taken to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire for further emergency treatment.”

ENDS

Thursday 6^th August 2015 – 8.30pm – Claire Brown.

A rush-hour collision involving HGVs and cars had the potential to be fatal on the M6 in Wolverhampton this evening.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the southbound carriageway of the M6 near junction 10a, Wolverhampton, just before 6.00pm (Thursday). Four ambulances, a paramedic area support officer, two Midlands Air Ambulances, a MERIT trauma doctor and a BASICS doctor were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Emergency services arrived to find several HGVs, a 4×4 and a car which had been involved in a serious collision.  The 4×4 vehicle had ended up trapped between two HGVs causing significant damage. Miraculously the driver of the 4×4, a man in his 40s, suffered relatively minor injuries. Once extricated from the vehicle he was immobilised as a precaution before being taken to Walsall Manor Hospital by land ambulance.

“One HGV driver, a man, was also trapped in the wreckage of his cab. Upon assessment he was found to have sustained a nasty lower leg fracture. Whilst the man’s condition was stabilised by ambulance staff with pain relief and anti-sickness medication, the fire service worked to carefully cut him free of the wreckage. After about an hour, the man was extricated onto a spinal board before being fully immobilised and taken to New Cross Hospital for further treatment. The MERIT doctor travelled in the ambulance to continue treatment en route.

“The driver of the car suffered minor injuries and was treated on scene before being taken to Walsall Manor Hospital by land.

“A second HGV driver, a man in his 20s, sustained a minor head injury in the collision but, once treated on scene, didn’t need hospital treatment.

“Considering the number of vehicles involved and the damage caused in the collision, it was miraculous that no one suffered more serious or even fatal injuries.”

ENDS

Thursday 6^th August 2015 – 3.45pm – Jamie Arrowsmith.

Two people have been ejected from their vehicle and subsequently airlifted to hospital following a collision between a car and a lorry in Telford this afternoon.

There were three patients in total from the incident at the Crudginton crossroads where the A442 meets the B5062, all from the car.

West Midlands Ambulance Service received six emergency 999 calls about the incident, the first of which was at 1.34pm. Two ambulances, a paramedic in a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic area support officer and the Midlands Air Ambulances from Cosford and Staffordshire were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a car with significant front end damage following a collision with a lorry.

“There were three patients in total, all men in their 20s from the car. Two of them had been ejected from the vehicle in the collision, one through the driver’s side window and one through the rear windscreen.

“The front seat passenger was treated for cuts to his face, a suspected fracture nose and injuries to his mouth before being airlifted to Royal Stoke University Hospital. The hospital had been alerted to the man’s condition prior to his arrival.

“The man travelling in the back of the car was also treated for injuries to his face, cuts to his head and abdominal pain. He was airlifted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham on alert.

“The car driver was treated for a head injury and taken by land ambulance to Royal Stoke University Hospital.

“The lorry driver was uninjured in the incident.”

Ends.

Thursday 6^th August 2015 – 11.20am – Jamie Arrowsmith.

A woman who was ejected about 15-feet from her van following a two-vehicle collision in Uttoxeter has been airlifted to hospital with multiple injuries this morning.

A van and car were in collision on the B5013 shortly after 8.50am, an incident which saw the car leave the road and end up in a hedge

West Midlands Ambulance Service sent an ambulance, a paramedic in a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic area support officer, a BASICS doctor, a community first responder, the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford and the Midlands Air Ambulance crew from Staffordshire in a rapid response vehicle to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, crews discovered a van and car that had both suffered significant front end damage as a result of the collision.

“The driver of the van, a woman believed to be in her 30s, had been ejected from her vehicle through the driver’s door window and was lying approximately 15 feet away in a hedge.

“She was treated by ambulance crews for a serious head injury, a reduced level of consciousness and collar bone, rib and wrist fractures. She was given pain relief and immobilised with the use of a scoop stretcher and airlifted to Royal Stoke University Hospital.

“Thankfully, her injuries are not thought to be life threatening.

“The car had left the road as a result of the incident and come to rest in a field after travelling through a closed gate.

“The driver, a man in his 20s, had managed to free himself from his vehicle and he was treated for a reduced level of consciousness, chest pain and minor cuts to his face. He was also immobilised with the use of a scoop stretcher before being conveyed to the same hospital by land ambulance.

“The road was closed as a result of the incident.”

Notes to Editors:

If used, please credit the images to West Midlands Ambulance Service.

Ends

Wednesday 5th August 2015 – 4.40pm – Steve Parry

A motorcyclist and pillion rider have been taken to hospital following a road traffic collision in Fenton, Stoke on Trent this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to an incident involving a car and motorcycle in Victoria Road at just before 3.15pm.

Two ambulances together with a paramedic support officer and a BASICS doctor attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews responded to a collision between a car and motorbike in Victoria Road earlier this afternoon.

“Crews treated a male in his twenties for a low leg injury. He was immobilised using a spinal board.

“The pillion rider was a 15 year old male who was treated for a fractured leg and pelvic injuries. He was given pain relief and immobilised with the use of a leg splint, neck collar and spinal board.

“Both patients were conveyed to the Royal Stoke University Hospital for further assessment and treatment.

“The driver of the car was treated at the scene but did not require further hospital treatment.”

 

End

Wednesday 5th August 2015 – 3.15pm – Steve Parry.

Four people have been taken to hospital and two were assessed at the scene before being discharged following a road traffic collision in the Aston area of Birmingham this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Electric Avenue at just after 12.15pm.

Three ambulances, a community paramedic together with an ambulance support officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews were called to a two car collision involving six patients in Aston earlier this afternoon.

“Two men travelling in the same car and believed to be in their fifties were treated for lower back pain and minor injuries. They were taken to the City Hospital for further assessment.

“In the second car involved, ambulance staff assessed four patients in their twenties. A male driver was treated for a knee injury and a female passenger received a fractured arm. Her injuries were immobilised before both casualties were taken to the City Hospital.

“Two further women passengers travelling in the car were assessed at the scene before being discharged.”

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Wednesday 5th August 2015 – 2.45pm – Steve Parry

A pedestrian has been airlifted to hospital with serious injuries following a road traffic collision in Walsall this afternoon.

The incident occurred on A461 Lichfield Road, Shelfield, Walsall at just before 12.30pm.

An ambulance; a community paramedic; a paramedic support officer in a rapid response vehicle together with the Midlands Air Ambulance attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Ambulance crews arrived to find a pedestrian had been in collision with a car on the Lichfield Road.

“A woman in her seventies was found to be unconscious and she was treated for serious head and multiple limb injuries at the scene.

“The patient was anesthetised by an air ambulance doctor before being immobilised with the use of a neck collar and placed on a spinal board.

“She was conveyed by air ambulance to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital further assessment and treatment.

“The hospital was alerted to the serious condition of the patient.

“The driver of the car was uninjured.”

 

• End – .

Wednesday 5th August 2015 – 11.30am – Steve Parry.

A man has died in a road traffic collision near Ombersley this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the incident near the junction of the A449 and A4133 at just before 10am.

An ambulance together with a paramedic in a rapid response vehicle and a paramedic support officer attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews attended a road traffic collision involving a motorbike that left the road near Ombersley this morning.

“Sadly, it quickly became apparent that nothing could be done to save the motorcyclist who was confirmed dead at the scene.”

 

End

Tuesday 4^th August 2015 – 3pm – Chris Kowalik.

 

Two children and a dog had to be rescued today after they all ended up stranded on an island in the middle of a lake.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Sutton Park shortly after 1.15pm today. An ambulance crew and a paramedic area support officer attended. The fire service also attended.

“A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “A 13 year old boy had gone into the water to rescue a dog. Then, an 18 year old girl went in after the boy.

“They got to an island in the middle of the lake from where the fire service took them to dry land. The boy and the girl were checked over and warmed up in the back of the ambulance before being discharged at the scene.

“We warn people not to go into open waters such as this. The water is cold, you don’t know how deep it is. There were weeds and silt in this lake but we don’t know what else is in the water.”

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Tuesday 4^th August 2015 – 2.05pm – Chris Kowalik.

A warning has been issued by ambulance service bosses to children after a boy fell through a disused garage roof while retrieving his football.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the Blythe Bridge area of Stoke-on-Trent shortly after 12.45pm today.

An ambulance crew and a paramedic area support officer in a rapid response vehicle attended.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “It appears the boy went onto the roof to get his football when the roof gave way and he fell about ten feet into the locked garage, landing on its concrete floor.

“Because the garage was locked, police had to force it open in order for crews to get inside. The boy had head and wrist injuries. He was immobilised with the use of a spinal board and neck collar and was taken to Royal Stoke University Hospital.

“We would warn children to be careful where they play and parents to know where they are.”

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Monday 3rd August 2015 – 11.45pm – Murray MacGregor.

A telegraph pole was left in a precarious position after a car collided with it, resulting in a man being taken to a major trauma centre.

The incident happened outside the Beech Hotel in Derby Road, Stretton in Staffordshire. At just after 6.30pm on Monday evening.

An ambulance and a rapid response vehicle were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival ambulance staff found a car that had suffered significant front end damage with a ‘V’ in the bonnet where it had collided with a telegraph pole.

“The pole itself was badly damaged and there was a fear that it might fall completely.

“The driver a 31 year old man had managed to get himself out of the car, but there was a ‘bullseye’ in the windscreen. He initially appeared to be uninjured but his level of consciousness dropped as he was being assessed which indicated a head injury. The man was also complaining of pain in his lower left leg. He was immobilised using a neck collar and spinal board as a precaution.

“After an assessment, it was agreed that he should go to a major trauma centre. Given the proximity to the Tattenhill airfield, the ambulance took the man to the Midlands Air Ambulance based there and the man was then flown to Royal Stoke University Hospital.”
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Monday 3rd August 2015 – 7.07pm – John Hawker.

A man has died following an incident on the M42 this afternoon.

The incident occurred on the slip road of junction 10, northbound at around 3.55pm. A rapid response vehicle, 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 had been in a collision with a lorry.

“A man driving the car was found in cardiac arrest and resuscitation attempts were carried out. Advanced life support took place at the scene but unfortunately, despite best efforts, nothing could be done to save the man and he was confirmed dead.”
Ends