Jamie Arrowsmith – Wednesday 17th July – 8.55am. (Issued in conjunction with Staffordshire Police & Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service)
As children prepare to break up from school for the summer holidays, a new video has been launched which is designed to educate youngsters on how to make a 999 emergency call.
The video, which has been jointly launched by West Midlands Ambulance Service, Staffordshire Police and Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, is aimed at children aged four to seven, with the emphasis being on what to do if they ever find themselves having to dial 999.
It features ‘Lookout Lion’ who needs to call for the help following a car crash outside his house. But does he know the number to dial? The location of the emergency? And can he stay calm enough to answer all of the questions from the operator which will ensure help is arranged as quickly as possible?
It ends with a message to parents about the importance of teaching children how to call 999 and the kind of things they can expect to be asked if doing so. It is also hoped that it will be used by schools as a way of educating children about the work of the emergency services and how they are there to help.
Jeremy Brown, West Midlands Ambulance Service’s Emergency Operations Centre General Manager, said: “Obviously we hope young children are never in the position that they need to call 999, but sadly sometimes they are and it’s vital that they are prepared in order for us to arrange help as quickly as possible.
“Hopefully this video will go a long way to making children aware of what to expect, whilst also leading into further conversations with teachers and parents about what to do and when it is appropriate to ring 999.”
Lisa Cope, Head of Contact Services for Staffordshire Police said: “As the summer holidays begin, we are asking parents to make sure they take five minutes to sit down with their children and explain how and when to call 999.
“It is important that children know their address and postcode so that if they need to call 999 at home, we can get to them as quickly as possible.”
Glynn Luznyj, Director of Prevent and Protect at Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “The ‘Lookout Lion’ video highlights the importance of knowing what to do in an emergency situation to children and also to their parents. Supplying the correct information is vital to ensure that the emergency services respond quickly and effectively to every call for help.
“We would encourage families to have a plan detailing what to do in an emergency and to include an escape route in case a fire breaks out at home.”
The video is available to view here https://vimeo.com/348369110/ed33b1bb03 whilst supporting material, including a downloadable document for parents to fill key details in on, can be found here https://wmas.nhs.uk/advice-resources/campaigns/how-to-make-an-emergency-999-call/.
Ends
Great teaching aid and well produced – just enough.
Helpful and needs pushing through the Schools especially primary/junior.
Sincere thanks to the team that attended the accident of Mrs Linda Partridge at the CO-OP Store, Bassnage Road Halesowen B63 on the 24th June 14:40 approx. The stressful situation experienced by Mrs Partridge and her grand children was dealt with showing great care and professionalism. We were unable to get the names of the crew in attendance, but we can not thank you enough for their brilliant response. We would be so grateful if you can check the records for the day and pass on our gratitude.
Yours Sincerely Simon Hopkins and Linda. Partridge.