Worcestershire libraries get prepared for emergencies this ‘Save a Life September’

The first-aid equipment has been installed in nine libraries and there are plans to install more in other public places across the county.

The kits are designed to help people stop the casualty bleeding before paramedics arrive.

The packs which include trauma dressings, chest seals and tourniquets are designed for public use.

First aid training is useful, but you don’t have to be a First Aider to use them. Anyone can access the kit in an emergency situation.

Councillor David Ross, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing at Worcestershire County Council said: “This investment by Public Health in trauma kits will truly save lives. In an emergency situation, early intervention makes all the difference because casualties can die of blood loss within minutes.

This Save a Life September, I’d encourage everyone to check their First Aid kits are up to date and learn or re-fresh their First Aid skills. You never know when you might need them.”

Funded by Worcestershire County Council’s Public Health team, trauma kits can be found at these libraries: Bromsgrove, Evesham, Kidderminster, Malvern, Redditch, Stourport, The Hive, Warndon, and Woodrow.

Councillor Karen May, Cabinet Member for Communities at Worcestershire County Council added: "I am so pleased that we have installed these potentially life-saving trauma kits in libraries, it really adds to their role as trusted, accessible and safe community hubs."

The locations of the trauma kits are also mapped onto ambulance service computer systems, so people can be advised if there is a kit nearby they can use while the ambulance service is on route.

This Save a Life September, check your first aid kits are well stocked and refresh your first aid skills.

To find out more, go to Saint John’s Ambulance website where you can order a free first aid pocket guide, watch ‘how to’ first aid videos and buy first aid supplies.