Cadet jumps into action

A Pukekohe student has been honoured for her actions after coming across a car accident last July.

Despite only being a member of the Bombay St John Youth for a few months at the time, 11-year-old Joy Rudd was awarded a Courage in Action award for the quick thinking she demonstrated during an emergency.

While travelling to a St John Youth NZ event with her father, they came across a car accident, and after pulling over safely, they rendered assistance.

Although an ambulance was coming, Joy used her St John emergency training to check the area for danger before ensuring the victim was not bleeding or had trouble breathing.

She stayed with the victim until help arrived, while constantly reassuring them that they would be OK.

Hato Hone St John community educator Sue Lowry teaches primary and intermediate students how to respond in emergencies.

“Joy was nominated for a Courage in Action award due to her brave and caring actions. She showed compassion, maturity, and remained calm in a confronting situation.

“Congratulations to Joy; she should be incredibly proud of herself,” said Lowry.

She said their St John in Schools programme helped students in situations that Joy found herself in.

“Our St John in Schools programme teaches primary and intermediate school students how to help in an emergency but also keep themselves safe.

“Children learn how to check for dangers, call 111 for an ambulance, look after an unconscious person, and basic first aid skills, such as stopping bleeding, treating burns, and responding to choking.”

Lowry said intermediate students are also taught how to deliver CPR as part of the DRSABC first aid action plan.