VILLAGE EMERGENCY TELEPHONE SYSTEM (VETS)
Bulmer has a defibrillator behind the old phone box. This is an electrical device that in the event of a cardiac arrest, can be used to shock the heart back into its normal rhythm allowing it to function properly. Should you be dealing with such an incident, you must first dial 999 and ask for the ambulance service and if you wish they will give you the code to get access to the defibrillator. Take a torch if it is dark.
The defibrillator is a fully automated device with easy to follow visual and verbal instructions and can be used without any formal training, in conjunction with the use of CPR. The Parish Council has organized a group of volunteers to assist you with CPR and the use of the defibrillator. If you are on your own or are not confident about first aid, you can call for help on 01653 272270 after first dialing 999. We recommend you to put this number in your favourites, and enclose a laminated card with the number and a brief explanation, to keep in a handy place.
If you call 01653 272270 you will first hear the message “Welcome to VETS. In a moment you will be connected to one of your village helpers. Please state clearly the assistance you require.” Please be patient as it can take time for the call to be answered. Once you have a response you should state your name and location clearly and let the volunteer know how to get into your house (doors unlocked etc). They will then fetch the defibrillator and come to assist you. If you do not get a response within 59 seconds you will hear a “no assistance” message; please try again, especially at night. Please use the loudspeaker on your phone so that you can continue with CPR whilst making the call.
The Parish Council are planning an evening event for anyone in the village to learn or refresh about CPR and the use of the defibrillator. A British Heart Foundation video will be shown and we have a number of dummies on which you can practice your CPR technique. This will be in the Village Hall at 7pm on Thursday 20th November 2025. All are welcome, so please come along.
This VETS service is provided by volunteers in the village, most of whom have no formal medical training. We have enough volunteers at present but if you would like to help please contact Will Heyes on 07891288285.