Trust marks Restart a Heart Day with installation of defibrillators
Today is International Restart a Heart Day. To mark the day the Trust has announced the roll out of public access defibrillators (PADs) outside its community hospitals.
The PADs have been donated and installed by the Front Line Emergency Equipment Trust (FLEET) and Duchy Defib. These are local charities. Their support means that members of the public can access a PAD quickly in the event of a cardiac arrest.
Restart a Heart Day is led by Resuscitation Council UK each October. It aims to increase survival rates from out-of-hospital cardiac arrests by equipping more people with the skills and confidence to perform CPR. The campaign also seeks to raise public awareness of cardiac arrest. As well as the vital actions that can save lives. Better access to CPR education and lifesaving interventions, such as PADs, is a key part of making sure more people receive the help they need in an emergency.
Every year, thousands of people have an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in the UK. Early recognition is key. Prompt CPR and rapid defibrillation can improve a person's chances of survival.
PADs are a crucial step in helping the chain of survival in Cornwall.
The Trust is using International Restart a Heart Day as a chance to learn CPR. It is also vital to be aware of the location of your nearest PAD.
Kate Hawkins is Trust's resuscitation lead:
"We are pleased to celebrate International Restart a Heart Day by making defibrillators more readily available to those we serve. We are grateful to FLEET and Duchy Defib. Their generosity and commitment is helping public access to lifesaving equipment. We can help more people recognise cardiac arrest, start CPR quickly and potentially save lives. The Trust would also like to thank both charities for their continued support in helping make Cornwall a safer place for residents and visitors alike."