Life saving equipment restored in Jan Juc

LOCALS and tourists alike will be able to access life-saving equipment once again at Jan Juc Beach.

A 24/7 accessible automated external defribillator (AED) has been installed at 10 Clubhouse Road and will help people experiencing cardiac arrest.

AEDs are used to shock the heart back into rhythm and play a vital role in a person’s survival.

Jan Juc previously had an AED at the beach toilet block, however it was vandalised and a replacement was required.

The device was donated to Ambulance Victoria by a local primary school, with AV providing the wall mounted storage cabinet.

AV Belmont advanced life support (ALS) paramedic Sara Hadden said the AED would be a huge asset to the community.

“We know that about 21 Victorians suffer a cardiac arrest every day and only one in 10 survive,” she said.

“It was very disappointing to see Jan Juc’s previous 24/7 AED vandalised as we know the impact these devices can have on a patient’s chance of survival.

“Thankfully, the community rallied together to install and register a replacement in an easily accessible high-traffic area fitted with security cameras.

“Having the 24/7 accessible device located here will mean visitors can start CPR and provide a shock from the AED in the crucial minutes before paramedics arrive.”

Torquay Boardriders Club will continue to fund the replacement pads and battery on a regular basis, as it has done since an AED was first installed in the area in 2018.

Ms Hadden said anyone can use an AED, regardless of whether they have had training.

“If you see someone in cardiac arrest, just remember to Call (call Triple Zero 000), Push (perform CPR), and Shock (use an AED),” she said.

“AEDs are safe and easy to use. You simply open it up and it will tell you what to do. The device will not deliver a shock to the person, unless it is necessary.”