First responder is a term given to an individual who is the first medically trained responder to arrive on scene of an accident.
It appears that rural Saskatchewan has more than its share of challenges when it comes to the medical sector. It continues to be a struggle to attract doctors to rural communities, to keep the doors of rural hospitals open and to maintain operations of medical response units in rural communities.
Hafford has six qualified first responders who reside within and surrounding the community of Hafford. Sometimes in rural areas, it is challenging for emergency ambulance or rescue units to arrive at a scene as quickly as within urban centres. Weather and road conditions as well as distance can contribute to delayed response times, however, having trained first responders in the rural areas to respond to an accident can be beneficial.
First responders are trained individuals who can provide potentially life-saving treatment and first aid until an emergency ambulance arrives. To use the term 'potentially life-saving treatment' refers to the fact that time is of the essence and that being the first on scene to administer first aid can make the difference in recovery.
The Hafford and district first responders recently received multi-purpose jackets identifying them as first responders. The outer shell of the jacket is reversible. It is black outside with a fluorescent green interior. The words First Responder is in reflective thread sewn on the back and there are reflective stripes on the jacket. The inside vest can be worn without the outside shell. A Blaine Lake ambulance crest is sewn on the front left side of the jacket.
Financial contributions made towards the six jackets valued at $358.82 each included the Rural Municipality of Douglas, Rural Municipality of Redberry, Town of Hafford and the Hafford & Area Primary Health Care Community Advisory Network.
These jackets will identify the first responders on scene and assist with promoting safety to both the responders and their patients. The Hafford first responders responded to 34 calls in 2012 and were recipients of the Prince Albert Parkland Health Region Group of the Year in 2012 at Spiritwood Ambulance.
