Hunt on for heart starters

Feb 25 2008

AMBULANCE bosses were today hunting for specialist life saving equipment in a bid to save more lives in Worcestershire.

West Midlands Ambulance Service want to hear from organisations who have bought defibrillators over the last few years.

The machines, which help re-start the heart with a pulse of electricity, are needed in public spaces to help people who suffer from heart failure.

Dave Lee, community response manager for Herefordshire and Worcestershire, said: "We know businesses, groups and organisations will have bought defibrillators for the benefit of their workforce or customers, but we would like them to be of benefit to the wider community.

"If we know where they are, we can ensure someone at each site is trained in their use. "The training is free and refreshed every year."

Records currently show their are 30 defibrillators in the two counties but officials believe there could be as many as 100.

Mr Lee added: "Every day I'm learning of new sites that have them. Every minute a person is in cardiac arrest, their chance of survival falls by 10 per cent."

For details on how to help call 07814 914446 or email defib@ wmas.nhs.uk