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31
"There are two Austin 20-h.p. machines, painted white inside
and out, and heated from the exhaust. T*wo stretcher cases can
be carried and three seated. The usual first-aid equipment is
carried, also spare blankets, waterproof sheeting and a canvas sheet
for carrying persons downstairs. An oxygen breathing set, with a
mixture of 7 per cent. of carbon dioxide, is carried in each
machine, and every man has undergone a course of instructions
with regard to its use.
" Two gas poisoning cases and one of pneumonia have been
treated by means of this apparatus, and in each case very successfully.
' The ambulances are attached to the Fire Brigade and manned
by firemen."
The use of the oxygen-carbon dioxide apparatus represents the
latest life-saving practice in gas poisoning cases, and is entirely
physiological in its principles, inasmuch as the carbon dioxide is
used to stimulate the respiratory centre of the brain.
Superintendent Camp states he is convinced that the use of
this apparatus saved the lives of the two gas poisoning cases.
Following enquiries as to the practice amongst 13 neighbouring
Local Authorities, only 4 of which provided a midwife to
accompany maternity patients, it was decided that all such cases
must be accompanied by a responsible adult female relative or
friend.
(B) Removal of Patients to Whipps Cross Hospital is carried
out by the hospital ambulances.
(C) St. John Ambulance Brigade.
During the year Mr. A. G. Mattacks was appointed Corps
Superintendent in place of Mr. Kemp (now District Officer Kemp
on Headquarter's Staff). Mr. Mattacks states that it is his greater'
desire for the Walthamstow and District Corps of St. John
Ambulance Brigade to be of still greater service to the people of
Walthamstow, should occasion arise, and reports as follows:—
" During 1932 we had 2 Motor Ambulances, the day drivers
being the only paid men in the Walthamstow and District Corps,
otherwise our services were entirely voluntary. Our headquarters
at Willow Walk, High Street, are open both day and night for the
service of the public, whom we have served for over 30 years.
" We have a sub-station at Highams Park and also one at
the Buxton Club, both of which have proved most successful.
We have another station on the Epping Road, open on week-ends
and holidays in the summer months. Commencing at Easter,