RAF Halton obtains AEDs
RAF Halton Safety Health and Environmental (SHEA) staff have taken the step of purchasing a number of AEDs (Automated External Defibrillator). The average ambulance response time for a cardiac event is 11 minutes, and every minute is vital to the survival of the patient. If a defibrillator is used and effective CPR is performed the survival chances increase from 6% to 74%. Twelve people under the age of 35 die every week due to sudden cardiac arrest in the UK. Anyone is at risk, regardless of age or lifestyle.
The AEDs purchased for Halton are designed to be used by non-trained members of the public, and are effective at guiding the operator/user through the process of administering the shock. They have become widely available, are safe and easy to use, and will not allow a shock to be given to a victim who does not require one. No specific training is required to use these lifesaving pieces of kit, with clear voice commands emitted from the unit.
The idea was first thought of by Deputy SHEA, Ann Collier, and brought to fruition when funds were found. She said: “The AEDs are simple to use and at present they are situated in the following areas:
- Main Guardroom Building 97
- Airfield Hangar 3
- RTS Guard Room Building 22
- Nuffield Building 262
- IFPT Building 225
- HHOM 301 and
- Burnett Gym 366
“The defibrillators are expensive at £1000 per unit and we were given the wall brackets free which are normally £90 each.”
Anyone interested in becoming a first aider, resulting in a First Aid at Work qualification, please send an email to HAL-SSHEA Multiuser to register your interest. The Station Health and Safety staff are happy to demonstrate how to use the AEDs.
