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St. John Ambulance re-opens Port Moody branch after pandemic hiatus

Lifesaving training programs now offered with strict pandemic protocols in place
Diane Strandberg

The venerable life saving training agency St. John Ambulance is back in business in Port Moody after a pandemic hiatus.

But new protocols will ensure that people learning first aid basics will be safe.

The branch has implemented a comprehensive COVID-19 plan that follows both WorkSafe BC guidelines, and those from the Provincial Medical Officer to ensure the safety of all students, instructors, and staff members, the agency states in a press release.

Here’s what’s different for those who sign up:

Students and staff will have to fill out a self-declaration upon arrival; students will have to bring their own pocket mask and non-surgical masks to courses; physical distancing measures will be implemented; and enhanced cleaning and sanitizing of all areas will be carried out.

Some of the volunteers with St. John Ambulance
Some of the volunteers with St. John Ambulance. Lifesaving training is re-starting in Port Moody. - St. John Ambulance

Registration is currently open with up to 10 courses available, including Standard First Aid with CPR and AED use, Emergency First Aid for Community or Industry, and Occupational First Aid.

“Getting first aid and CPR trained is an extremely important action to take. Training gives you the confidence to act fast during a variety of emergencies and most importantly, it gives you the skills to possibly save a life,” stated Karen MacPherson, CEO of St. John Ambulance BC & Yukon.

Anyone can register for training by visiting sja.ca, or by contacting the St. John Ambulance customer care centre at 1-866-321-2651 or [email protected]. All proceeds from training and product sales directly funds St. John Ambulance’s charitable community service programs.

St. John Ambulance volunteers didn’t just sit out during the first months of the pandemic, however.

While it had to make the tough choice to close branches and pause all community service programs, including therapy dog visits and medical first responder support for community events and activities,  volunteers stepped up to provide support by volunteering in other ways — such as at Canadian Blood Service clinics, the Topaz Park camp for the homeless in Victoria and helping to develop an alternate care centre at the BC Convention Centre.