The first responders are trained to provide cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for a person who is not breathing and whose heart has stopped beating. They are equipped with automatic external defibrillators and oxygen as well as other basic first aid equipment. Following a 999 call, the Ambulance Operations Centre will direct on-duty responders to attend local incidents involving chest pains, breathing difficulties, suspected heart attacks and unconscious casualties before the arrival of an ambulance.
The Lonach Area First Responder scheme covers the parishes of Corgarff, Strathdon, Glenkindie, Glenbuchat, Towie and Kildrummy. It is manned by volunteers comprising a core of personnel with previous emergency service experience. While the training of first responders is an ongoing process with two training evenings each month, the volunteers have undergone an intensive two days of instruction and examination by the Scottish Ambulance Service.
Lonach Area First Responders
