Versatility is the choice for South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service

The challenges facing the Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) are nothing if not unpredictable, and are one of the main reasons why South Yorkshire FRS has chosen a versatile piece of equipment for emergency evacuations.

The sling, called Promove, is designed for moving and handling incapacitated or disabled, including bariatric individuals in restricted or outdoor spaces where a hoist cannot be used.

Paul Gladwin, Technical Rescue Unit Manager for South Yorkshire FRS said: “We have recently used the Promove sling to rescue an obese lady from the bath. Being able to slip the sling under the lady was very important as was the number and position of the handles provided - without the sling this rescue would have been extremely difficult”.

Dr Huw Thomas, creator of Promove said: “Manhandling a casualty without the right equipment can lead to more problems, not only for the casualty but also for the rescuers.”

He adds: “The situation with South Yorkshire FRS illustrates that the sling can be essential in less dramatic situations as well as life or death emergencies. It is a versatile piece of equipment and an invaluable piece of kit to fire and rescue teams across the UK”.

The sling allows an individual to be moved without being manhandled and with the least risk to the operator. It has been independently tested to move a range of different sized individuals, from children to large adults weighing up to 45 stone.

Promove is easily placed beneath an incapacitated person whether lying on the ground, seated in a chair or restricted in a tight corner. It provides good support, forming a bucket shaped seat, giving a sense of security for moving and transferring.

For further information and a free trial, please contact Dr Huw Thomas or Dana Thomas by telephone on 01970 820893 or by e-mail huw@promove.uk.com / dana@promove.uk.com.