22 July 2012
The numbers of two-wheeled medics in London will increase
over the next few days to take emergency care to patients quickly
through the crowds on the torch relay route and during the
Games.
As the Olympic flame made its way through the capital for the
first full day yesterday (21 July), 10 cycle medics geared up for
the challenge alongside eight ambulance crews on duty on the
route.
Two patients were checked over by staff, but neither required
hospital treatment.
Around 60 cycle responders, up from the usual 35, will be posted to
places with high volumes of pedestrians. The team will cover
additional areas such as Stratford, Greenwich, Victoria, the South
Bank and along the torch route.
Cycle responders, who have the same lifesaving skills as regular
ambulance staff, have already been operating in the West End, City
of London, Euston, Kingston and Heathrow Airport for some
time.
Assistant Director of Operations Katy Millard said: “We very
much look forward to supporting the torch relay this week and are
prepared to provide emergency care for the crowds who gather to
watch as the flame makes its way around the capital.
“We have posted additional staff in ambulances and on bicycles
along the route to treat any patients who need us as quickly as
possible.”
As the weather is expected to get warmer over the next few days,
spectators along the torch route and visitors to the Games are
encouraged to enjoy the sunshine safely.
Katy added: “We want everyone to enjoy the torch relay and the
Games in London. Stay healthy during the warm weather by drinking
plenty of water, wearing sunscreen and seeking shade during the
hottest part of the day.”
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- First trialled in 2000, a cycle response unit (CRU) team has
operated in London’s West End since 2002.
- In 2004, a CRU team was set up at Heathrow Airport because of
its large volume of people travelling through and its unique
large-scale, indoor environment.
- In 2006, a CRU team was set up in the City of London because of
the high volume of workers and tourists in the area.
- In 2008, further CRU teams were set up in Shepherd’s Bush,
Hammersmith and the Isle of Dogs (Canary Wharf). The Heathrow
Airport team was expanded to cover Terminal 5.
- In 2010, a CRU team was set up covering area around King’s
Cross, St Pancras and Euston stations, and a team in Kingston town
centre.
- Cycle responders have also been used to attend patients in
large-scale public events such as Notting Hill Carnival and
high-profile matches at Wembley and Twickenham.
- For further information about the London Ambulance Service or
this news release please contact the communications
department on 020 7783 2286.
- Find out more about the London Ambulance Service at www.londonambulance.nhs.uk
or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ldn_ambulance