THE Community Emergency Rescue Team (CERT) Georgetown is on standby from 6am to 6pm daily till after the Hari Raya Aidilfitri holidays.
The first aiders started to be on standby mode on June 1.
Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang said first aiders were ‘on call’ to provide services to road users in case any emergency arises until June 9.
He said it would be the third consecutive year for the team to be on their medic-bikes to help motorists during emergency this festive season.
“I believe using motorbikes is a wise move as they (volunteers) will be able to beat traffic congestion in town area and move around easily.
“Volunteers who are well-trained can provide first aid while waiting for the ambulance to arrive,” he told a press conference at the MBPP hall in Cecil Street on June 2.
CERT Georgetown chairman Lee Chiew Wan said the council hall in Cecil Street was being used as the base for them to gather while another one was located in Taman Pekaka in Sungai Dua.
He said the team at Taman Pekaka would look out for any emergency within that area.
“Our team comprises some 60 members such as paramedics, nurses and a doctor,” he said.
Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Daniel Gooi also did his part by contributing RM1,000 to CERT Georgetown as a gesture of supporting a good cause.
“I encourage the road users to plan their trips carefully and drive safely, especially during night time,” he said.
Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, who was also present, said CERT Georgetown had responded to 24 emergency cases in previous operation held during Chinese New Year early this year.
“The contributions of these volunteers who go on their medic-bikes at the narrow roads in town area are really invaluable as they help to save lives,” Teh said while commending the volunteers.
Story & pix by Tanushalini Moroter