Almost 200 residents attended the Save A Life event at Kenley Memorial Hall on Saturday 13th April. Four paramedics from the London Ambulance Service gave Life Saving First Aid instruction.
There was an introductory session which included the subtle tell-tale signs of a stroke and the need to take the early symptoms of a heart attack seriously. The paramedics emphasised the importance of calling 999 first to get help on the way to the victim before starting any sort of first-aid intervention.
Attendees were then passed to a second paramedic who explained how to give first aid in the case of burns. Lots of tips and surprising ‘don’t dos’ were given. For example, do not apply cream to burns and if a victim has a burn larger than the palm of their hand then they should be referred on to a medical professional after first-aid.
The instruction then moved on to choking. A dummy, Choking Charlie, was used to demonstrate the various techniques used to remove an object blocking the airway. The need to stay calm should the victim lose consciousness was discussed.
The third stage of the instruction dealt with CPR chest compressions and the use of a defibrillator. It was made clear that CPR can only be carried out successfully if the recipient was on a firm flat surface and on their back. Everyone got a chance to do compressions on a dummy torso.
The use of defibrillators was demonstrated in conjunction with CPR in the event of a cardiac arrest (stopped heart). There are a number of defibrillators in Kenley and it was recommended that everyone should familiarise themselves with their location.
In a discussion with the paramedics afterwards, they said they were astonished by the high turnout and the quality of the questions they were asked.
KENDRA would like to convey its thanks to Paul, Stephanie, Tracey and Caroline for their brilliant instruction, and to the 7th Purley Scout Troop for helping to make the event run so smoothly. Finally our thanks to all those residents who attended which made the day a success.