Ambergris Caye First Responders:
Sterling Vorus of Island Ferry stated that he is currently training his staff to handle many emergencies such as rescuing stranded boaters, first aid, search and rescue, evacuations and ambulance service for the north end to San Pedro and/or to Belize City. This service will now be known as the Ambergris Caye First Responders which is under the umbrella of Ian Anderson's Belize Disaster Response & Rescue Team which is providing all the training.
Mr. Vorus stressed the need to create guidelines in San Pedro for proper procedures to follow for different types of emergencies. A coordinated effort between the Town Council, local doctors and transportation businesses needs to be put in place so that all residents, hotel staff and tour guides know exactly what to do no matter what type of emergency arrives to be able to deal with the emergency in a timely manner that will save lives.
There is currently a defibrillator located at the Island Ferry office on Fido's dock and one at Journey's End Resort.
Cullen Walker has donated much needed equipment, such as a backboard, cervical collars, hot and cold packs, bandages, etc. to the Ambergris Caye First Responders to be able to better offer these services.
Many people don't realize that Sterling will close his business in times when these emergency services are needed. He does not get reimbursed for fuel or time lost and has never asked for it. However, when these emergencies arise, he is always willing to do what he can in using his business's resources to help when it is most desperately needed.
The Ambergris Caye First Responders is in need of financial help and/or equipment help. If anyone can donate to this much needed service, please contact Jules Escalante at 621-3295 or Sterling Vorus at 226-3231.
We all would like to thank both Sterling Vorus and Cullen Walker for creating the Ambergris Caye First Responders.