It’s worth understanding what a defibrillator is and why it used in cases of heart attacks to bring the heart’s rhythm back to normal.

Public access defibrillators (PADs) are usually found in public areas such as gyms, shopping centres and gyms.

The Defibrillator is easy to use

Great thing is you don’t need any training and it will actually give spoken instructions.

Every second counts

After a cardiac arrest, every minute without CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and defibrillation reduces someone’s chance of survival by 10 per cent.

When you call 999, the operator can tell you if there’s a public access defibrillator nearby. Don’t delay or interrupt chest compressions to get it, send someone else.

If you’ve installed a defibrillator in your community or workplace, check that your ambulance trust knows about it. That way, 999 operators can quickly identify a nearby device in future emergencies.

How to use a defibrillator

Defibrillators are very easy to use. Although they don’t all look the same, they all function in broadly the same way.

If you come across someone who is not breathing or breathing erratically, the most important thing is to call 999 and start CPR. If you’re on your own, don’t interrupt the CPR to go and get a defibrillator. When you can, send someone else to find one. Once the defibrillator is open, all you have to do is follow the spoken instructions.

There’s lots more information about obtaining and using defibrillators in the Guide to Defibrillators we produced in conjunction with the Resuscitation Council UK.

Funding for defibrillators

Our Nation of Lifesavers Community package offers part funding for a public access defibrillator and Call Push Rescue training kit.  You can find out more about the application criteria and how to apply online.

We also provide funding for community first responder schemes.

The Department of Health Defibrillator funding programme in England has now closed. Due to a high demand in applications we have now allocated all the funds available.

Information taken from the British Heart Foundation – click here to read the full article – Healthsafe Training provide full first aid training courses to businesses and public sector bodies in Manchester and Warrington and throughout the North West. If you are looking for more information on first aid courses, please contact us and a member of staff will help you.