Importance of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs)
Campaigns / 12th August 2021
As part of our Healthy District Agenda, the BID will be working to increase awareness of the importance of AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) which are an important part of the chain of survival when people suffer sudden cardiac arrest. A bill is being currently considered at Westminster to make the devices compulsory in public buildings, education and sports venues. Whilst this bill does not extend to NI, MPs have expressed interest in working on a cross-party basis to deliver similar proposals.
When an individual suffers a cardiac arrest, early CPR and defibrillation can double their chance of survival. Denmark’s Christian Eriksen recently survived a cardiac arrest after a device was successfully used on him, and highlights the need for more accessibility, training and awareness.
Registration and Awareness
Our Street Ambassadors are currently engaging with members to map the number of AEDs within the Linen Quarter. This information will be available on our website, and we will encourage those members to register their devices with the NIAS mapping tool. Whilst this should never be used in an emergency situation, it provides an awareness of the locations of all AEDs and highlights areas where the installation of a device may prove useful.
Training
The LQ Health Week programme in September will include two sessions based around Heart Health and CPR.
The first is a Healthy Heart Webinar, delivered by LQ-based member NI Chest, Heart and Stroke. This will cover preventative measures, such as how to maintain a healthy heart and risks to your heart. We would encourage any member wishing to learn more about their heart health to attend. There will also be an opportunity for questions.
The second event is an accredited, bespoke CPR training session which will be delivered to a limited number of members. The course will be fully funded by the BID, and will cover the chain of survival, use of an AED and practical cardiac arrest scenarios.
This course is ideal for Office Managers, Facilities Managers or any member who may be required to respond to cardiac arrest situations. Whilst basic first aid knowledge would be an advantage, it is certainly not essential. On successful completion of the course, delegates will receive an ‘Automated External Defibrillation Operator’ certificate. Due to social distancing guidelines, this course will be available to a limited number so members are encouraged to book early.
If you are interested in either of these events, please contact charlotte@linenquarter.org for more information.
