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Icom supports Essex Air Ambulance

Herne Bay based Radio Communication Company, Icom (UK) Ltd has recently donated a ground to air communication system to the Essex Air Ambulance Trust. The system comprising an IC-A110 fixed radio transceiver, PS-1308 power supply (and a base antenna supplied by Communication Technical Services) was installed by Malcolm Salmon of Samair Systems Ltd at the Boreham Air base in Chelmsford. Together the system will enhance communications and allow important information to be relayed accurately between the controller at Boreham Airbase and the Essex Air Ambulance.

The main task of the Essex Air Ambulance is to deliver its paramedic crew to the scene of traffic accidents and other medical emergencies and then transport patients to the safety of the nearest major hospital or specialist. With the Icom radio installed, important information such as patient details, general & technical advice and flight details can be relayed from the helicopter's Paramedics to ground control. This vital information can then be further relayed to the helicopter's eventual destination.

Lee Gillam, Station Manager at Essex Air Ambulance, said: 'We are grateful for this equipment. The installation of this system will provide several improvements to our procedures. It will allow us to ensure that the helicopter has clear airspace before landing. It will give us the capability to rapidly deploy our resources (e.g. fuel and fire equipment) lessening the time on the ground should the helicopter have to make an extended trip. More importantly, should the helicopter develop a fault we can immediately put all our safety procedures in place ensuring that it has a safe landing.

Barry Vane, Commercial Dealer Manager at Icom (UK) Ltd said: 'We were approached by Malcolm Salmon enquiring if we could help Essex Air Ambulance. We already support the Kent Air Ambulance Service and recognise the superb job that the trust does for the community of Kent. Being just over the water from us, we jumped at the chance of helping the Essex trust out. It makes me proud that the system will be carrying out such a vital role for such an important service.

Icom UK Marketing - marketing@icomuk.co.uk