A Community First Responder (CFR) is a non-medical volunteer trained to attend certain emergency calls in the area where they live or work. The aim is to have the individual reach a potentially life threatening emergency in the first vital minutes before the ambulance crew arrives. Their role is to stabilise the patient and provide the appropriate care, including defibrillation, until the more highly skilled ambulance crew arrives on scene to take over the treatment. In the case of a cardiac arrest, every second is vital so the arrival of assistance in such a timely fashion is essential.
The aims of the North Kilkenny CFR Group, which is comprised of Johnstown, Crosspatrick, Galmoy and Gathabawn CFR and Urlingford and Graine CFR, will be:
To provide life-saving emergency assistance via dispatch from NAS to members of the appropriate areas as an interim measure until more qualified medical assistance is available
To promote CPR and the use of an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) by members of the community through training and information sessions held within the locality.
To provide training on life-saving skills to all interested groups within the area.
To work with the National Ambulance Service, CFR Ireland and all associated groups to provide up-to-date information on the techniques.
Operating since 2017 and 2024 respecitvely, the teams serve the local community 365 days a year. We thank you for visiting!