A Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) service is a step closer for Harrington and surrounding areas, after 15 volunteers kicked off their training with NSW Ambulance last week.
CERTs are a unique resource designed to assist smaller regional communities and are comprised entirely of NSW Ambulance clinical volunteers who support paramedics in times of need.
When a local patient needs lifesaving treatment fast, local CERT volunteers will be deployed by the Triple Zero (000) dispatch system to provide initial assistance while paramedics are on the way.
The NSW Ambulance CERT initiative started in December 2021 and has already proven a resounding success in areas including Nana Glen, Manildra and Howlong.
The new cohort at Harrington have been selected after months of community consultation and a thorough application process.
The volunteers will undergo a comprehensive training program, both in the classroom and on the road with NSW Ambulance paramedics, while they learn to provide initial emergency care to the community.
The volunteers will graduate at a community event later this year, before the official launch of the service.
NSW Ambulance provides wellbeing assistance, as well as personal protective equipment, uniforms, and a fit-for-purpose response vehicle to transport CERT members safely to emergencies quickly.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park:
"It's fantastic to see locals in Harrington putting their hands up to make a real difference by becoming CERT volunteers. Their willingness to act could make all the difference in an emergency.
"Through their training, these volunteers will become a first line of support in emergencies, helping keep people safe and reassured until professional medical help is on the scene."
Quotes attributable to Labor Spokesperson for Port Macquarie Cameron Murphy MLC:
"I want to thank each and every one of these volunteers for dedicating their time to care for their neighbours here in Harrington.
"These volunteers will play an important role in supporting our hardworking frontline healthcare staff."
Quotes attributable to NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dr Dominic Morgan:
"Our CERT volunteers are an exceptional part of the broader emergency care network. I'd like to warmly welcome our newest team members in Harrington.
"These volunteers are taking on a big commitment to support their neighbours during health emergencies and times of disaster, and I commend their dedication."
Photos from Harrington CERT training available here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ZNMyCkH9Fsn6K82X89ZaQ4FHEeSXpxJ0?usp=sharing
