General News
28 October, 2020
Simpson Community Emergency Response Team to the rescue
HELP is now even closer to home for Simpson and District residents in case of a medical emergency.
HELP is now even closer to home for Simpson and District residents in case of a medical emergency.
A Simpson Community Emergency Response Team’s (CERT) has been established, with the volunteers now active within the community.
Simpson CERT members are all local residents who volunteer their time to provide first response medical care and comfort to the sick and injured.
When 000 is dialled for an ambulance the CERT is dispatched at the same time as a paramedic crew to provide a more efficient and effective response to remote communities prior to the arrival of an ambulance.
The team consists of Bree Jones, Russell White, Josh Ovens, and Paul and Cheryl Parsell.
Mr Parsell, who is also the captain of the Simpson Country Fire Authority, said he was pleased to see the Simpson CERT come to fruition.
“After two months of training we had our first official day which was on October 5,” he said.
“We received our new car and all the equipment.
“It was a good feeling. It is something we haven’t had in Simpson before.
“I think everyone was quite happy.”
Mr Parsell said the group had already had a number of callouts.
He encouraged the wider community to think about volunteering.
“There will be another training course coming up, we’ve had a few people put their hand up and say they’re interested,” Mr Parsell said.
“It’s such a rewarding experience when you can go and help someone in their time of need.
“It gives you a purpose. With all the training you get, you get the skills to be able to apply them.”
As well as volunteering with the CFA, he has also spent a number of years with the Timboon CERT.
Mr Parsell said the feedback from the community had been positive about the formation of the group.
“We’ve had people coming in and saying they are so happy they know if something comes up, they know someone will be there,” he said.
For more information about Simpson CERT and how to volunteer visit the Simpson CERT Facebook Page.