The chamber on Guernsey in the English Channel used to treat divers with decompression sickness, had been operated by St John Ambulance until April. The new chamber is expected to be operational by June, according to the Health and Social Services Department.
The chamber has been operated by St John Ambulance for the past 40 years
he old chamber which is over 40 years old, was run by St John Ambulance & Rescue Service and used to treat divers with decompression sickness until it was closed in April. It was solely funded by public donations and located at the Ambulance Station on the outskirts of Guernsey’s main town, St Peter Port.
The closest recompression chamber 22 miles away on the larger Channel Island of Jersey is effective. In the event of a diving accident, people should still call 999 or 112 for an ambulance, or if at sea call Guernsey Coastguard by marine radio on Channel 16. Depending on their location we will respond with either the St John marine ambulance, an inshore rescue boat or an emergency ambulance.
Once the diver is assessed and stabilised if they require treatment in a recompression chamber we will make the necessary arrangements for the short transfer to Jersey by air or sea.
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