Busy start for new Air Ambulance NI service as emergency calls reach 47
'Challenge now is to raise £2m to keep it going'
Northern Ireland’s new Air Ambulance was called out nearly 50 times on emergencies in just seven weeks of service, it emerged today.
And service chiefs are predicting an even bigger increase in demand.
Chief executive Patrick Minne said the service was already making a life-saving impact.
He said: “The service has already flown 47 emergency missions covering the whole of Northern Ireland - 77% of the calls have been from rural areas, while road traffic collisions account for nearly three quarters of all deployments to date.
“We’ve also been called to a range of agricultural, industrial, domestic and sports accidents.”
Since its launch, Air Ambulance has been in action on 47 occasions throughout the province.
The figures were revealed as Air Ambulance Week – a national campaign used to raise awareness of the Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) – got under way today.
Head of Fundraising Kerry Anderson said the 12-year fundraising campaign was worthwhile and he added that it was “vital we keep the service going.”
“Whilst no-one wants to ever need the helicopter service, it’s great that it’s here and improving long term outcomes for those suffering serious injury,” he said.
“Anyone of us might need it, so it’s vital we keep the service going. The challenge is to raise the £2m to keep it here. That’s why we’re encouraging workplaces to have coffee mornings; community groups to hold events; and individuals to make a donation or volunteer. Whatever you can do will help. Let’s all get behind this fantastic service to keep it here for good.”
Donations can be made on-line at www.airambulanceni.org or you can contact the charity on 028 9262 2677 or email info@airambulanceni.org