First-Aid Services and Air Raid Precautions

Abstract

FOLLOWING the recent transfer from the Home Office to the Ministry of Health of responsibility for approving the air raid precautions schemes of local authorities in respect of first-aid posts and ambulance services, the Minister of Health has forwarded to all local authorities responsible for such schemes and to every voluntary hospital an explanatory communication (Circular 1764. H.M. Stationery Office. Id. net). There should be at least one medical man, and if possible a trained nurse, in addition to the volunteer personnel, in attendance at every aid post. An aid post should be attached, or be very close, to all hospitals which are to be used for the initial reception of casualties, and some of the smaller hospitals, clinics, health centres, etc., might be transformed into aid posts. In some areas, it is suggested, the fixed posts should be supplemented by mobile units, which could give medical aid on the spot. Ambulances that may be required, the organization of ambulance services, and then personnel, are described, as well as the use and training of women for ambulance driving. Finally, the Minister urges all responsible authorities to press on with their schemes and proposals without delay, and desires that an interim report be furnished by every authority involved.