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Air Ambulance NI called out 50 times in first seven weeks

County Down has seen the highest concentration of call-outs

Air Ambulance NI

Air Ambulance NI has been deployed 50 times in the first seven weeks of operation.

And it has attended calls in every single county, with Down top of the list with almost half the calls (24).

Air Ambulance Northern Ireland Chief Executive Patrick Minne said around 77 per cent of the call-outs so far have been to rural areas.

“We note a high proportion of rural incidents,” said Mr Minne.

“It is more proof of the need to take care on the roads in country areas.

“Road traffic collisions tend to be head traumas and the speed with which we can attend really proves the value of the service. We can provide Emergency Room type treatment at the side of the road.

“We’ve also been called to a range of agricultural, industrial, domestic and sports accidents.

“We know from our colleagues who are working in intensive care that there are people alive today who may not otherwise be without our intervention.

“We are able to get patients with head traumas into induced comas ahead of treatment in hospital as it is a doctor led service.”

The charity requires £2m of public funds to keep the service in the air.

Kerry Anderson, its Head of Fundraising, said: “Whilst no-one wants to ever need the helicopter service, it’s great that it’s here and improving long term outcomes for those suffering serious injury. Anyone of us might need it, so it’s vital we keep the service going.

“The challenge is to raise the £2m to keep it here. That’s why we’re encouraging workplaces to have coffee mornings, community groups to hold events, and individuals to make a donation or volunteer. Whatever you can do will help. Let’s all get behind this fantastic service to keep it here for good.”

Donations can be made on-line at their website

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