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The Lakeshore branch of St. John Ambulance is experiencing significant growth. The demand for first aid coverage at public events has increased over the years, which has created a need for more members and training than ever before. We no longer carry only basic splints and bandages but also have oxygen, spinal immobilization equipment and other special gear. A popular recent addition to the Cobourg Divison has been our Bike Team, which patrols during some of our duties. St. John Ambulance also works in partnership with the Red Cross and Salvation Army as part of the local Personal Disaster Assistance Program. In conjunction with this, upon request, we provide mutual aid in the form of a canteen service to the fire departments and other emergency personnel within Northumberland Country. Training is provided for our volunteers and is done on weekday evenings but weekend workshops are available to members as well. Applicants are screened, must pass a criminal record search, and hold a current Standard First Aid certificate prior to being considered as a member. Once membership is approved, members are expected to attend most meetings. They are a mixture of current business and training and are held the 1st and 4th Tuesday of every month from 7:30pm to 9:30pm. Members are expected to complete a minimum of 60 "on duty" hours annually. St. John provides other opportunities, leadership skills, and other special training. Future Objectives During this past year, the local Division covered many first aid duties at various locations throughout the county and treated numerous injuries. The injuries ranged from sprains and fractures to more serious situations. St. John Ambulance is a dynamic organization. We recognize that Northumberland County is a growing community and we are making a firm commitment to grow with it. As we enter a new era in health care, we need to stay alert to changing needs and be there to help where help is needed.A Good Place To Expand Your Skills St. John Ambulance provides training and experience that helps you deal with ill and injured people with a new level of confidence. No matter how seriously injured a patient is, you will be trained to make the right decisions and take control of the scene until Paramedics arrive. You will be able to provide important information about the patient's condition. Our training consists of theory, hands-on practical experience, and techniques in patient care and equipment use. You will be given opportunities to participate in public education on safety-related issues. There are also a variety of positions within the Division, which will provide you with new challenges. |
