Visitors to the Park over the last two weekends will have noticed a small group of people involved in strange scenarios on the edge of the main car park. A first impression might have been that a major incident had taken place and the ambulance was on its way.

In fact a first aid course was being taught in the classroom and was using the forest for practical sessions. A company called Re+ction First Aid delivers training under the Rescue Emergency Care scheme (REC) which is designed specifically for outdoor  professionals and enthusiasts.

Designed for locations such as QECP where casualties may be waiting for the emergency services for extended periods, the courses were attended by members of Hampshire Search & Rescue and included mountain bike leaders and canoeing instructors.

The next available dates are on  the 4th/5th May and the 27th/28th July.

For more information and to book a place contact Steve on 07944 555587.

All the Park’s front of house staff including the rangers,  education officers and receptionists are first aid trained and the three 4WD vehicles all carry first aid kits. Over the course of a year, despite the total number of visitors exceeding 300,000, only about 30 entries are made in the first aid book.