Crusader ambulance

Bishopston Division has its own Crusader ambulance that is known by its call sign, Gold Alpha One Two Nine (GA129). It is a front line emergency ambulance equipped with all the lifesaving equipment a suitably trained member of St John Ambulance can use. It also comes with things like an electric ramp, sat nav, reversing camera and an intercom to make it as easy and safe as possible for the crew.

GA129 is mainly used to transport a casualty from an event to hospital for further treatment. However we also use it as a very well equipped first aid post having covered up the blue lights and the Ambulance signs. This means all the members at Bishopston get to use it, not just those that are patient transport attendants or emergency transport attendants. Additional training is provided by St John Ambulance to members that want to drive GA129.

Also, during busy periods (Friday and Satuday evenings) and emergencies, GA129 is made available (with a crew) to come under the control of the Great Western Ambulance Service (GWAS). This is a good way for members to gain experience as they will usually treat more casualties during a GWAS shift than they would providing cover at an event.

We are always keen to welcome new volunteers from Bristol and surrounding areas. If you are interested, e-mail the Avon Recruitment Team saying you would like to join Bishopston St John Ambulance Division.