Community Corner

Chester First Aid Squad To Increase Service

After a busy 2011, the squad is looking to add equipment and expand services in 2012.

The had another busy year in 2011 and plan to add programs and equipment to ensure they are ready for whatever 2012 has to throw at them. The squad's team of volunteers, on call around the clock, responded to a record 845 calls within and . In addition, the squad responded to 21 mutual aid calls in surrounding towns.  

CFAS EMTs responded to diverse emergencies, including traumatic injuries, medical emergencies, and fire-related emergencies servicing both patients and emergency fire personnel.  For some emergency calls, CFAS partnered with advanced life support units, as well as AirOne, an Atlantic Health System helicopter, plus NorthSTAR operated by NJ State Police. The helicopters were utilized on six occasions to transport critically injured patients to a trauma or burn center hospital.  

In addition to handling emergency calls, CFAS ensured an on-site presence at 24 local Chester events, such as the 4-H Fair, the Chester Craft Fairs, and various other festivals and sports events held locally.  CFAS' North Road facility continued to serve as a Car Seat Station for the NJ Safe Kids/Safe Communities organization. A few members who are certified AHA BLS Instructors have been providing CPR/AED classes to teachers, athletic coaches and members of the public in an effort to help save lives.

"I’m extremely proud of our members who give selflessly to care for the sick and injured. Not many people realize how much work it takes to maintain an organization such as ours,” said CFAS Captain David Fretwell. “But we are blessed with having such a terrific group of volunteers who really care about the community."

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Improvements in 2011 included the launch of EMT’s on Bike, which places EMT’s on 2 fully outfitted bicycles to patrol heavy traffic/crowd conditions, allowing care to be initiated more rapidly. The squad also purchased new equipment for and expanded the capabilities of its support unit. The unit not only provides on scene rehabilitation for firefighters, but also contains specialty equipment for search and rescues, accidents involving machinery, and other supplies, which allows the squad to handle a large array of incidents. The squad also recently overhauled its website.

In 2012, CFAS is looking forward to taking delivery of a new ambulance, funded by the township and borough of Chester.

Other plans for the year include: Fundraising to replace an aging support unit, and establishment of a Special Response Team. This group will consist of EMT’s who have completed additional training in areas such as Confined Space Rescue, Water and Ice Rescue, Vehicle Rescue and so on.

To learn more about the Chester First Aid Squad, inquire about becoming a member, or make a donation, visit the website or call the CFAS Office at: (908) 879-5560.  CFAS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization: all donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law and are greatly appreciated.

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