Responding to Emergencies

Community First Responder (CFR) volunteers operate within the community they live or work and respond to incidents within a pre-defined geographical area such as a village or small town.

CFR’s are trained to a minimum level of basic life support in CPR and the use of an AED/Defibrillator. CFR’s respond to 999 calls that relate to cardiac arrest, chest pain, heart attack, choking, stroke or collapse in their local area. They carry a defibrillator and can provide emergency medical care for patients whilst waiting for the arrival of the ambulance.  We also respond to first aid related calls. 

The early arrival of a CFR to a scene can be crucial and can mean the difference between life and death and is key to optimizing “the chain of survival” and optimal patient outcomes.

CFRs also provide vital support and reassurance to patients and families when they are most vulnerable and provide effective updates to NAS Emergency Operations Centre and personnel on scene.