500 First Aiders At The Ready To Support Carnival
Tuesday, 24 August, 2010
OVER 500 first aid volunteers are poised to provide medical assistance at the spectacular Notting Hill Carnival this month (Sunday 29th and Monday 30th August).
St John Ambulance London (Prince of Wales') District will ensure sufficient volunteers and support units are in place to ensure the safety of the one million visitors expected to attend the Carnival.
The nation's leading first aid charity will work alongside the London Ambulance Service throughout the weekend to resource a state-of-the-art control room.
In 2009 St John Ambulance London (Prince of Wales's) District treated more than 700 people over the two day Carnival, transporting 113 to hospital.
This year, St John Ambulance will be deploying doctors, nurses and medical professionals along with motorbike and cycle responders. There will also be 11 treatment centres strategically positioned along the Carnival route and over 30 ambulances will be provided across the two-day event.
Ann Cable, Commissioner of St John Ambulance in London, said: 'Each year we work closely with London Ambulance Service colleagues and with staff from the hospitals to provide a comprehensive service at this worldwide renowned Carnival.
'We have provided a totally professional service since the Carnival first began in 1966 and we are confident that we can provide the best possible first aid care and medical assistance possible, ensuring the safety of the many carnival-goers.'
In preparation for the occasion, the charity has issued the following advice:
- Prepare for high temperatures by using plenty of sun cream and wearing a hat.
- Take advantage of the copious amounts of drinking water available.
- If we are not blessed with perfect summer weather do ensure that you have a couple of light layers of clothing to keep you reasonably dry and warm.
Remember flip-flops are no protection against broken glass and the debris that will be on the streets.
- Ensure you have a form of contact. The streets become incredibly busy, so maintain contact with your friends and family by making sure you have exchanged mobile phone numbers. And know your exit routes when tiredness does eventually overtake you!
For further information about St John Ambulance London call 020 7258 7014 or visit
www.sja.org.uk
