Cycling paramedics aim for rapid response in city
EEASTCycling paramedics are taking to the streets of Cambridge with the aim of cutting response times in the city centre.
The cycle response unit will initially be crewed by two paramedics from the East of England Ambulance Service, with plans to expand to four in the coming months.
Its bike is fitted with blue lights and carries life-saving emergency equipment, including a defibrillator and the same kit found in response cars.
"Cambridge is an extremely busy city centre, and responding to 999 calls on a bicycle means we can navigate narrow roads and pedestrianised areas much easier than an ambulance," said paramedic Jordan Ellis.
"It's quite a difference, changing from an ambulance to a bicycle - especially as it's just myself pushing that bike so my response time is dependent on how fast I can bike, and in the safest manner.
"Because we can treat and discharge patients with a wide range of injuries and illnesses at the scene, we can free up ambulances for the most serious medical emergencies."
St Andrew's Street Baptist Church has offered its space for the crews to restock and take a break.
Reverend Simon Cragg said he was "thrilled" to be able to support the service, which was operating seven days a week.
"We are a community church at the centre of a very busy city, and caring for the most vulnerable is an important aspect of our life as a church," he added.
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