Correction and Rehabilitation Centres are usually classified as a high-risk environment where accidents, self-harm and medical emergencies are common. First aid-trained guards can stabilise a situation before the arrival of paramedics, potentially saving lives. EUPOL COPPS Penitentiary Advisers organised a comprehensive First Aid training programme for nine male and female police officers working in Bethlehem Detention Cells, the city’s Correction and Rehabilitation Centre (CRC) and other Palestinian Civil Police (PCP) units in the district. The training was held in the Bethlehem from 04-07 May. The Bethlehem detention facility, already overcrowded, is short of qualified health professionals and police officers running the CRC who would be capable of dealing with lifesaving measures.

During the four-day event, the CRC officers were trained by professional paramedics from the Palestinian Red Crescent Society on several topics related to cardiac arrest, air way, Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) — an emergency treatment that’s done when someone’s breathing or heartbeat has stopped — control of bleeding and wounds. The paramedics also demonstrated how to handle different scenarios, for example how to treat inmates on wound care, choking response, managing shock, and how to apply bandages. The training included contributions from the Independent Committee for Human Rights where they highlighted the rights of individuals in incarceration and the duties of guards ensuring respect for human rights. EUPOL COPPS Advisers emphasised that the inmates have a right to basic healthcare, including emergency assistance. They also reiterated that well-trained staff help uphold international human rights standards and reduce liability for neglect or inadequate care.