By Callan Date
MEMBERS of the Upper Beaconsfield Red Cross will be able to respond faster than ever to emergencies with a new firstaid trailer.
The specifically designed trailer contains two oxygen bottles, a defibrillator, stretchers, several firstaid kits and other essential emergency items.
Volunteer Peter Day said the new trailer would help the group in several ways, including saving valuable time in emergencies.
“We will take this trailer to many different jobs like fire emergencies, disasters as well as sporting carnivals and other community events,” Mr Day said.
The Upper Beaconsfield unit bought the trailer with money brought in by Red Cross members during several fundraising events.
“It also holds camping equipment for members to stay on site for a number of nights, if the situation calls for it,” Mr Day explained.
However, the new trailer may not be used to its full capacity if the group doesn’t increase its volunteer base.
Mr Day said the Upper Beaconsfield unit was the oldest firstaid group in Victoria, and desperately needed more members to join its ranks.
“We have 12 members in the group at the moment, and most of us are getting on a bit in age,” he said.
Red Cross membership is free with all volunteers receive free Level II firstaid training and a uniform.
“All we ask of our members is that they attend six postings a year.”
Mr Day stressed how important knowing basic firstaid could be in a range of everyday situations.
“The training is great for use during postings, but members are also able to use their knowledge if something should happen at home with their kids or elderly relatives.”
Anyone wishing to join the Upper Beaconsfield Red Cross unit should contact Peter Day on 0409 544 590.
Panthers drop milestone match
Dandenong’s four-game winning streak in Victorian Premier Cricket came to an end against Melbourne on Saturday as the Panthers failed to mark a major...
