An open invitation to members of the public is being extended by the Fermoy/Conna branch of the Irish Red Cross to attend this Friday's (28th June) open evening (7pm - 9pm) at their base in unit 7, block B of the Faber Castell Industrial Estate in Fermoy. Special guest is 'Voice of Ireland' finalist, Kelly McDonagh-Mongan.
The Red Cross is probably one of the best known voluntary organisations in the world and everyone is familiar with the ambulances that carry the famous symbol. Locally, readers will have encountered the Red Cross at various sports events and other gatherings - you may have always wanted to learn more about the work they do, well this is your chance.
What to expect on Friday evening
As of now, the forecast is good for Friday evening and if the weather holds, the event has the makings of a really enjoyable occasion. Personnel from the Fermoy/Conna branch have invited their good friends at Fermoy Fire Station along to re-create a car crash scenario - a joint effort between the firemen and Red Cross volunteers. This is a chance to see up close what unfolds when emergency services respond to an RTA (road traffic accident). The simulation will be very realistic and gives an insight into the level of training and professionalism of both our local fire fighters and Red Cross unit.
A less high octane demonstration will also be provided in the shape of a Teddy Bear clinic - a very effective way of getting across basic first aid procedures without spilling any blood. There will be face painting for the kids, a resident D.J. and a few other treats as well. It's completely free and well worth checking out.
Your local Red Cross team
Fermoy/Conna Red Cross are fortunate to have a core of very dedicated members. Members range from teenagers to the more mature. The Fermoy/Conna Red Cross branch pride themselves on the friendly atmosphere of their unit and this is evident whether on training or during active assignments.
Chairman: Fr Donal Leahy. The branch 'leader' is popular cleric, Fr Donal Leahy who is the parish priest in Kilworth/Araglin. A staunch advocate of the Red Cross ethos, Fr Donal is a progressive and enlightened chairman.
Vice chairman: Paudie Wade. Paudie has risen quickly through the ranks to become branch vice chairman. Someone who can be relied upon completely, he's a very conscientious volunteer and a major asset to the unit.
Unit officer: Emma O'Regan. Emma is a hands-on operative who has excellent organisational and communication skills - a vital cog in the running of the branch.
Joint secretaries: Clodagh O'Donovan and Moya Gubbins - these Red Cross colleagues and good friends are responsible for the branch's administration and consistently do a good job.
Treasurer: Sheila Lewis. A native of Monadrishane in Kilworth, Sheila is the ultimate 'safe pair of hands' who oversees the branch finances - universally admired for her thoroughness and attention to detail.
PRO: Jerome B Murphy. The branch's media relations manager is Jerome B Murphy. Jerome keeps all the unit's activities in the public eye and has done a lot of work promoting the open evening. He was also very helpful in the production of this promotional feature.
New members always welcome
Fermoy/Conna branch of the Irish Red Cross always welcomes new members. Additional information on the Irish Red Cross is available by logging on to www.redcross.ie
A stark statistic
While there's a strong social element to the work done by Fermoy/Conna Red Cross, the bottom line is that volunteers are trained to deal with any emergency and their considerable skills have saved many a life over the years. According to Red Cross research, 55% of fatalities involving young people could have been prevented. The Red Cross have 5 simple but vital tips that can prevent the worst from happening in the family home.
1) Always keep access routes and stairwells clear.
2) When cooking, never leave pan handles within the reach of children.
3) Keep chemicals under lock and key.
4) Be alert to the hazards of plastic bags.
5) Remember that a child can drown in just one inch of water.

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