Bleed kits installed in towns to 'prevent tragedy'

The bleed kits have been distributed around market towns and tourist sites

Emergency bleed kits are to be installed in towns and at tourist attractions across the Forest of Dean.

Forest of Dean District Council supplied the kits, which can be used to stem traumatic bleeding in a medical emergency following an assault, fall, or crash, before emergency services arrive.

They will be installed in Cinderford, Coleford, Lydney and Newent and at Pedal-A-Bikeaway at the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre.

Jackie Dale, cabinet member for thriving communities at the council, said: "The minutes following a traumatic injury are critical and having these bleed control kits available could help save a life and prevent a tragedy."

Ms Dale added: "Although we hope that these kits will never be needed, it is important and reassuring to know they are there if required."

The council said the project was made possible because of the Community Safety Partnership and funded from the proceeds of a successful prosecution carried out by the Counter Fraud and Enforcement Unit and Forest of Dean District Council.

The kits, all of which are registered with the Ambulance Trust, are accessible 24/7 and the code can be provided to the public in an emergency by calling 999.

Tasha Saunders, mayor of Lydney Town Council, said Lydney had been given seven bleed kits.

'Proud to have them'

"These kits will be placed in key locations around the town, near some of our existing defibrillators," Ms Saunders said.

"It's heartbreaking that such resources are necessary, but if even one kit helps save a life, it will have been worth it. We're proud to have them as part of our commitment to protecting our community."

Details for each location will be updated on both the Forest of Dean District Council website and the national register.

Once installed, each location will display a window sticker to indicate the presence of a bleed kit, helping members of the public quickly identify where emergency support is available.