“ONE call could save a life” – that is the message of a newly launched campaign aimed at children in Hampshire to teach them about what to do in the event of an emergency.

The Be A 999 Hero schools initiative is being run by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance (HIOWAA) and Estate Agents Knight Frank.

It will be offering school lesson plans and information packs to primary schools, teaching Key Stage 1 and 2 children about what to do in an emergency and the role of the Air Ambulance in the county.

Advising the HIOWAA on the information packs is former teacher Ryland Lee. He said: “Often children freeze when they find themselves confronted by an emergency situation. They don’t know who to ring or what to say. The information cards will help in these situations.”

Campaign manager Rachel Pearson, said: “Our initial talks with Hampshire Primary Schools have been very encouraging and there has been a great deal of interest in the initiative, which also has the full support of South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS). Children have responded well to the information packs which are fun, but informative.”

Any school teachers wishing to take part in the campaign should call 023 8033 3377.