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Discovery members facilitate first aid training for emergencies

University lecturer and paramedic Martin Botha says there is a need for patrollers and security guards to undergo first aid training as they are usually first responders to emergencies.

The Discovery Community Forum (DCF) members, along with patrollers and security companies, recently underwent a first aid training session to equip them with the necessary skills to deal with emergencies that may arise within the community.

Dan McNeil does CPR on a dummy. Photo: Nkosephayo Vilakazi

The training session was conducted by licensed paramedic and university lecturer Martin Botha, who covered basic topics such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), wound care, and how to respond to various medical emergencies. Participants had the opportunity to practice their skills in simulated scenarios, allowing them to gain hands-on experience in applying first-aid techniques.

Martin Botha, Thabo Rangaka (Help24), and Katelyn McNeil help the patient with CPR by using an automated external defibrillator. Photo: Nkosephayo Vilakazi

The training was organised by DCF members and volunteers, and the goal of the training was to ensure that all members of the community were prepared to respond quickly and effectively in the event of an emergency. By equipping forum members, patrollers, and security guards with these essential skills, the community can create a safer and more secure environment for all residents.

Siovahn Bezuidenhout checks if the “patient” is breathing normally. Photo: Nkosephayo Vilakazi

“There are often situations in our community forum groups where people call for medical emergencies, and our patrollers are usually first at the scene before the formal emergency services arrive, so we want them to feel confident and competent to be able to deal with them before the professionals arrive,” Martin said.

Martin also added that many people in this country do not have this kind of training, and they are hoping to do so every three months.

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