The Rapid Response Cars
When the Helicopter is offline – either at night when it is too dangerous to land in London, or if there are dangerous weather conditions – the operation is supported by a rapid response car team which ensures 24 hour care to London. The rapid response cars also carry a senior trauma doctor and a specially trained paramedic to the scene of the injury in the quickest time possible. The Rapid Response team will treat the patient on scene, carrying out procedures normally only found in the emergency room. The Rapid Response team patrol London awaiting a call from the London Ambulance Service's control room to send them to a serious case. The rapid response cars attend the same types of serious incidents as the Helicopter. The Rapid Response team is equipped with a substantial range of drugs, emergency surgical kits, monitors and other equipment 'a mini Accident & Emergency Department (A&E) of their own' so that they can begin treatment straight away. London’s Air Ambulance has six Skoda Octavias. All cars are equipped with blue lights, high visibility strips and badges to identify the car as part of the London’s Air Ambulance fleet. Blue Light Drivers at London’s Air Ambulance undergo a five day training course under blue light conditions. The training also includes Vehicle Daily Inspection (VDI), Ground Escorting and a written Highway Code Driving Test. London’s Air Ambulance has its own internal driving licence. Vehicle Specifications The Helicopter
London’s Air Ambulance operates an MD902 Explorer twin engine helicopter, one of the most identifiable in the world. This is one of a new generation of aircraft chosen for its safety features which include no tail rotor, important in an urban environment. It has been specially adapted for its purpose, to enable patients to be treated to the standard of an intensive care unit in flight. About us
London’s Air Ambulance is a registered charity which runs London’s only helicopter emergency medical service, providing life saving care to victims of serious injury throughout London - serving the 10 million people who live, work and commute within the M25. |
