‘Every minute matters’: Dorset paramedics show shoppers how to save a life
South Western Ambulance Service is urging people to learn CPR at the Poole Dolphin Centre
Dorset's paramedics are teaching shoppers in Poole how to save a life with vital CPR training as part of the annual Restart a Heart (RSAH) initiative.
Led by Resuscitation Council UK, the initiative raises awareness of cardiac arrests and equips people with the confidence and skills to perform CPR and use a defibrillator.
By learning these simple techniques, members of the public can play a vital role in improving survival rates for out-of-hospital cardiac arrests.
Dave Wilmot, Volunteering and Community Services Officer at SWASFT, said: “Every minute matters when someone suffers a cardiac arrest and knowing what to do can make the difference between life and death.
“A simple act like starting CPR or using a defibrillator can more than double a person’s chances of survival.”
Up until October 19th, paramedics, emergency care assistants and volunteer community first responders will deliver free, hands-on training sessions at venues across the region.
Participants will have the chance to watch CPR demonstrations, practice on mannequins and learn how to locate and use a defibrillator in an emergency.
“These events are a chance for anyone to learn how to save a life, and we’re looking forward to welcoming people of all ages to get involved,” Dave Wilmot added.
Everyone who completes a 15-minute CPR session will receive a certificate, but even a few minutes spent learning from the team will help towards increasing survival rates for out-of-hospital cardiac arrests across the South West.
Sadly, fewer than one in ten survive. Immediate CPR and defibrillation are critical, as for every minute without intervention reduces the chance of survival by 10%.
Dave Wilmot said: “Each year, around 100,000 people in the UK suffer an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest – that’s approximately 250 people every day.
“With 80% of cardiac arrests happening at home, it could be a friend or family member who urgently needs your help.
“Through Restart a Heart, we want to give people across our communities the skills and confidence to step in during those critical moments.”