UK Police Officers Save 100 Lives with Life-Saving GoodSAM App
Heroes in Blue Restart 100 Hearts
Police officers across multiple UK forces have performed the incredible feat of restarting more than 100 hearts. Thanks to the GoodSAM Responder App, officers receive instant alerts when someone nearby suffers a cardiac arrest – giving them precious minutes to deliver CPR before the ambulance arrives.
GoodSAM App: A Vital Link in Emergency Response
The GoodSAM Responder App is integrated with most UK ambulance services. When a 999 call reports a cardiac arrest, the app instantly notifies registered responders in the vicinity. This includes NHS professionals like doctors, nurses, paramedics, as well as police, fire crews, and trained first aiders ready to step in.
Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Hertfordshire Lead the Way
The Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Hertfordshire (BCH) police forces were the first in the UK to use GoodSAM in partnership with the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust. Over 500 police officers from these forces have answered cardiac alerts, often providing life-saving CPR before paramedics reach the scene.
“As police officers, we are dedicated to serving the public and protecting lives,” said Chief Superintendent Jon Hutchinson. “We are delighted to have helped so many people who suffered a cardiac arrest. The outcome could have been very different without the cardiac alert service and the quick actions of our volunteer colleagues.”
Saving Seconds, Saving Lives
Every minute without CPR after a cardiac arrest slashes survival chances by 10%. GoodSAM bridges the crucial gap between the 999 call and ambulance arrival.
The life-saving alert service, first rolled out in BCH, now also operates in the East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) and the London Ambulance Service (LAS). This means off-duty officers in neighbouring regions like London, Northamptonshire, and Lincolnshire can respond to emergencies nearby.
Look Out for Restart a Heart Day
This heroic milestone of 100 resuscitations comes just ahead of Restart a Heart Day on 16 October – a day dedicated to raising awareness about cardiac arrests and the importance of knowing CPR.
To find out how the GoodSAM app works or to learn CPR, visit the GoodSAM website or contact your local emergency services.
