Neighbourhood cycle patrols get to the heart of communities

Essex cycle officers are now patrolling with a pocket defibrillator, thanks to funding from Tendring Community Safety Partnership.

Each of the police patrol bikes is already issued with a bleed control kit and the addition of the St John Ambulance pocket defibrillator means officers are bringing life-saving equipment into the heart of their communities.

Sergeant Scott Lewis, of Tendring Neighbourhood Policing Team, says:

“Cycle patrol officers are often among the first to arrive at incidents in our town centres, seafronts and open spaces. 

“All officers are trained in first aid, but our cycle patrol officers now have additional capabilities to provide immediate assistance to people suffering serious injuries or medical emergencies. 

“Equipping them with defibrillators and bleed kits means they are better prepared than ever to make a real difference during those vital first few minutes. 

“We hope we never have to use them, but if we do, we are ready.”

Councillor Peter Kotz, Tendring District Council’s Cabinet Member for Assets and Community Safety and Chairman of the Tendring Community Safety Partnership, says:

“We’re pleased to fund this portable defibrillator for Tendring’s neighbourhood policing officers to carry on cycle patrols in our communities.

“While we hope it never has to be used, this equipment could make a vital difference in a medical emergency, where every second counts.

“We are committed to working with our partners, including our local police, to improve quality of life for residents. This practical investment supports public safety and helps ensure potentially life-saving equipment is available should it be needed.”