Firefighters Deliver Baby In Stonehaven
Firefighters were forced to safely deliver a baby in Stonehaven this morning, when they arrived and the baby was well on her way!
A team of firefighters helped to deliver a baby girl today.
Crews were called to the property in Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire, by ambulance staff after they received a report of a woman in labour who was unable to get to the door.
When they arrived at about 9.20am the head of the baby was already showing, and with the ambulance still on its way, crew manager Gavin Strachan and firefighter Tim Hull, 19, promptly helped in the delivery.
Also at the scene were firefighters Matthew Crabb, Neil Innes and driver Alex Gordon.
The local doctor and nurse, who were contacted by the ambulance service, arrived shortly after the child was born.
The mother and daughter were taken to hospital by ambulance and are said to be doing well.
Mr Strachan, 31, said: "We were initially called by Scottish Ambulance Service who asked us to help gain entry to the house after they received reports of a woman in labour who could not make it to the door for obvious reasons.
"We identified the key holder and got inside. Matthew went in and came back and told us the occupant was in the bathroom and that the baby's head was already showing.
"Myself and firefighter Tim Hull put on our rubber gloves and made sure there were plenty of clean towels.
"We received advice from the ambulance service over the phone and we helped support the baby's head until the wee one had successfully entered the world.
"We had to check to make sure the baby was breathing properly and that her airways were clear.
"We were told that if a baby was crying then that was a good sign. I have two children of my own, so I had experienced a birth before.''
He added: "This is the first call of this type during my 13 years in the job and I think it was a real eye opener for Tim, who has been in the job for just a couple of years.
"We are just delighted that everything went well and that mum and baby are doing fine.
"We wish them all the very best in the future. We also contacted the dad to tell him the good news.''
David Rout, senior officer for Aberdeenshire and Moray, praised his crews, saying: "Our staff never cease to amaze us with their professionalism and approach to emergency calls they attend.''