A CHARITY donation has proved a breath of fresh air to St John Ambulance Isle of Man. Boston Charitable Foundation has funded a year’s supply of the oxygen and analgesic gases used by the Island’s leading first aid charity. 

Experienced St John Ambulance volunteers are trained to identify when and how to administer oxygen and analgesic gases to the sick and injured and learn of the potential hazards associated with storage and administration.

“While oxygen can help save lives there are definite contra-indications which must be recognised,” said Neal Mellon, Director of Operations for St John Ambulance Isle of Man.

“In addition, oxygen will help support combustion; combined with grease and dirt the risk of combustion is greater still. The need for rigorous training and practice should not be under-estimated.

“Analgesic gases separate at temperatures below - 6º C. Volunteers must be aware of the potential dangers if the product is administered without adequate preparation

“This sponsorship will be greatly appreciated by members, trainers and the patients who will use the gases over the next 12 months.”

George Moore CBE KStJ, of the Boston Charitable Foundation, said, “The trustees are delighted to support such a worthy cause. Boston as a group uses St John Ambulance for essential first aid training and we value the tremendous contribution that St John Ambulance makes at local community events. To support this valuable cause by providing the oxygen and analgesic gases for one year made perfect sense.”

Dr Iain Kewley, Commander of St John Ambulance Isle of Man, added, “We are grateful to the Boston Charitable Foundation for this donation, which will be of obvious benefit to the sick and injured.

“We hope other local firms and businesses will consider similar unique and worthwhile forms of sponsorship to this ancient and chivalrous order.”