Strong Together: professional emergency services and citizen emergency services in the fight against cardiac arrest

Strong Together: professional emergency services and citizen emergency services in the fight against cardiac arrest

In the event of cardiac arrest, the first few minutes are crucial. Thanks to the collaboration between professional emergency services and citizen responders in the Netherlands, these precious minutes can be used optimally, which significantly increases the chances of survival of victims. The teamwork between police, fire brigade, ambulance personnel and citizen responders forms a powerful chain of assistance that can save lives.

Police: first on scene and safety guarantee

Police officers are often the first on the scene and play a key role in securing the scene and coordinating bystanders. Thanks to their training in resuscitation techniques, they can immediately start life-saving actions and create a safe working environment for all other emergency responders. Their quick, responsible action lays the foundation for a successful resuscitation, where every second counts.

Fire brigade: an indispensable link in the survival chain

The fire department is much more than a firefighting unit. Firefighters are highly trained in resuscitation and the use of an AED. By arriving quickly on the scene, they can immediately begin resuscitation, which can make the difference between life and death. The determination and professionalism of firefighters ensure that not a second is lost when every minute counts.

Ambulance: specialized medical care for the best chance of survival

Ambulance personnel are the last and specialized link in the chain of survival. They are trained to provide advanced life-saving care and transport victims to hospital. With their medical knowledge and the latest technologies on board the ambulance, they provide the victim with the care that is most needed.

Citizen responders: increasing reach and speed

Through initiatives such as HartslagNu , citizen responders are informed of a cardiac arrest in their area. They can often be the first to start resuscitation until professional responders arrive, which saves valuable time. The use of volunteers strengthens the network of emergency services and ensures that rapid assistance is possible throughout the Netherlands.

A network of decisiveness and commitment

The collaboration between police, fire brigade, ambulance and citizen responders shows the power of a well-organized and reliable aid network. This impressive collaboration is an inspiring example of what we can achieve together to save lives, and truly deserves our appreciation and gratitude.