Cornwall Air Ambulance is one of several air ambulance charities across the UK to be supported by a grant from the Lions Club International Foundation.
The lifesaving charity was awarded £4,560 for two UV decontamination chambers, which will help to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 infection. The cabinets use ultraviolet light to destroy both DNA and bacteria, and can be used to decontaminate helmets, clothing, and medical equipment between missions.
District Governor Jim Partridge-Hogbin, Lions Clubs of the South West, said: “We know air ambulance charities have remained busy throughout the pandemic. They have faced considerable extra, unbudgeted – day to day costs – at the same time as lockdown has affected fundraising. Now, thanks to an emergency COVID-19 relief grant from the Lions Clubs International Foundation in the US, we can provide immediate support for this emergency service that touches lives in all our local communities.”
Cath Collier, Trusts and Grants fundraising officer for Cornwall Air Ambulance, said: “We are extremely grateful to be awarded a grant to fund this new equipment- our thanks go to the Lions Clubs International Foundation.
“The two UV decontamination units will enable the crew to clean multiple items simultaneously, when needed, so the aircraft is back online and ready for the next mission as quickly as possible.”