BEACHGOERS near Aireys Inlet will have top safety equipment by their side this summer to help in times of emergency.<\/p>\n
A new automated external defibrillator (AED) has been installed at the Fairhaven Surf Lifesaving Club and will be available for public to use 24 hours of the day.<\/p>\n
An AED is a life-saving device designed to treat sudden cardiac arrest caused by arrhythmias.<\/p>\n
The device is equipped with step-by-step verbal instructions to assist users with administering the machine.<\/p>\n
Fairhaven SLSC president Nancy Joseph said the device would be life-changing.<\/p>\n
“We have taken this proactive approach and invested in essential equipment, as we understand the critical role that preparedness and swift action play in safeguarding the lives of community members.<\/p>\n
“It’s a positive benefit to the community, especially if there are delays in ambulance response times.<\/p>\n
“Some of the road is packed in both directions, so it’s tough for an ambulance to get through. Gladly if there is a need, we will have it ready to go.”<\/p>\n
The installation was supported by Ambulance Victoria and its Heart Safe Community program.<\/p>\n
Every year, Ambulance Victoria nominates two areas in each Victorian region as a Heart Safe Community.<\/p>\n
Fairhaven was identified as a vulnerable town due to having little or no community AEDs, affected by ambulance response times and have little GoodSam community first responders.<\/p>\n
As part of the Heart Safe program, Fairhaven SLSC will run free training for volunteers on AED, CPR and first aid equipment use.<\/p>\n
“The education sessions not only empower community members to take action during emergencies but also instill a sense of confidence and preparedness in dealing with critical situations,” Ms Joseph said.<\/p>\n
Updates on session times will be announced soon.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
BEACHGOERS near Aireys Inlet will have top safety equipment by their side this summer to help in times of emergency. A new automated external defibrillator (AED) has been installed at the Fairhaven Surf Lifesaving Club and will be available for public to use 24 hours of the day. An AED is a life-saving device designed […]<\/p>\n