‘This could save lives’: Female CPR manikin introduced by fire service
The new model helps people practise on a female body, including how to use defibrillators properly
A new female CPR training manikin is being used to tackle hesitation in life-saving situations, with fire experts warning that a lack of confidence could be putting women at greater risk.
Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service has secured funding for the bespoke manikin to improve how people are trained to respond to cardiac arrests involving women.
Historically, CPR training has largely been carried out using male-shaped manikins – something Youth Engagement Officer Michelle Bates said has left a gap in confidence and understanding.
“For years, we’ve trained on male forms,” she said. “But in a real emergency, that’s not always what you’re faced with. This is about making training reflect reality.”
She said the need for change became clear when the service examined national data.
“Research shows that women are about 27% less likely to receive CPR from a bystander,” she said. “Much of that comes down to a lack of knowledge and confidence, as well as concerns about how actions might be perceived or fears of getting into trouble.”
“It’s a striking statistic that women are less likely to receive that potentially life-saving help.”
Research also highlights wider hesitation, with a 2024 St John Ambulance survey finding that one in three people would be reluctant to perform CPR on a woman in public.
Ms Bates said the introduction of a female manikin was designed to address those fears directly.
“If people don’t feel confident, they might hesitate – and in a cardiac arrest situation, hesitation can cost lives,” she said.
‘’It's really important that we remove the stigma in CPR’’
The manikin allows trainees to practise chest compressions and the correct placement of defibrillator pads on a body with breasts – something she said is often overlooked.
“One of the biggest issues is knowing how to place pads properly,” she explained. “If they’re not in the right position, the defibrillator won’t work as effectively.”
Training also includes guidance on removing clothing, including bras, when using a defibrillator.
Campaigns such as Bra Off, Defib On have highlighted the importance of this step, as leaving clothing in place can interfere with the device.
“Feeling uncomfortable about removing a bra should never be a barrier to saving someone’s life,” Ms Bates said.
She said the manikin was already helping to challenge stigma, particularly among younger trainees.
“When we first introduced it, there was a bit of awkwardness,” she said. “But once people understand why it matters – that it could be someone they care about – that quickly changes.”
‘’People might think it's funny to see a female mannequin with breasts. But it's a reality.’’
The equipment will be used in community safety sessions, including training for fire cadets and workshops such as Biker Down.
Northamptonshire’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone, who awarded the funding through the Safe and Sound Communities Fund, said the manikin could help more people feel able to act.
“I hope that the manikin can empower people to be confident in treating women and help to save lives,” she said.
For Ms Bates, the goal is simple – ensuring no one hesitates when every second counts.
“The more realistic the training is, the more confident people become,” she said. “And that confidence could make the difference between life and death.''
If you or someone else is experiencing symptoms of cardiac arrest, call 999 immediately