VEMA (Voluntary Emergency Medical Assistance) represented by Shannon Charles and Craig Everett (Owner of Rocky Waters) shared some very importanttips leading up to the festive season at Hirsch’s Hillcrest Networking Breakfast on Wednesday.
Craig Everett has experience in the Medical and Security industry and is the newly-elected chairman of VEMA.
In the photo: Craig Everett (Rocky Waters), Sarah Poulsom (Hirsch’s Hillcrest) and Shannon Charles (VEMA)
“This time of year is not always as pleasant as we wish it to be,” said Shannon, who is also highly experienced in the medical field. “Some of us may experience unpleasant incidents, like snakebites, alcohol and drug abuse, and we need to know how to handle this as best as possible.”
Sadly, at this time of year, the medical units experience a lot of heart attacks, choking, drug and alcohol abuse and they plead with the public to look after themselves. If you are faced with an emergency situation, the first thing to do is call for help. “The quicker you react, the better the results,” said Shannon.
Craig Everett’s top tips for keeping your home safe over the festive season:
• Dispose of boxes by tearing them up and putting them in a black bag. Do not leave an empty box on the side walk it advertises to everyone that you have just got a new TV.
• Remove all litter off your verge, this can be used to mark houses hinting to crime breakers that you are a target.
• Test alarm systems and panic buttons regularly.
• Put all garden tools away after use.
• Report anything suspicious.
• If you suspect anything, change your routine when arriving home and do one extra drive around the block.
How to react when an emergency vehicle with red lights and siren blaring approaches you:
Don’t panic and follow the K53 method of driving, moving over to the left when it is safe to do so. Response drivers already know what action they will take at least 500m away from your vehicle, so just stay calm and act appropriately.
For more information on VEMA, visit www.vemaparamedics.co.za. The group’s emergency contact number is 083 630 0000.