Public Access Defibrillator

Defibrillator

An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is located on the wall of the Foelallt Arms next to the telephone box on the square, opposite Siop Brefi, for use by members of the public if someone suffers a sudden cardiac arrest. Defibrillation within 5 minutes of a collapse greatly increases chances of survival, and ambulances in rural areas are rarely able to respond within this time.

The defibrillator can be used to deliver an electric shock to someone whose heart is not beating effectively, and who is not breathing, to try and restore a normal heartbeat. The unit assesses the heart’s rhythm and is completely safe to use even without training, as it will not deliver a shock unless it is needed, and gives audible instructions for use throughout the process.

The Community Council, with the assistance of Dr. Siôn James from Tregaron Surgery, applied to the British Heart Foundation for a part funded Community Package, which included a training kit for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the defibrillator. The remainder of the cost of this package and the external cabinet to house the defibrillator was met with local donations and funds raised by the WI and YFC. Local Electrician, Adam Southwood-Martin, installed the cabinet, and the Welsh Ambulance Trust’s Public Access Defibrillator Scheme Manager, Gerard Rothwell, gave an initial training session at a presentation event with representatives from the British Heart Foundation in the village.

An independent Defibrillator Committee conducts weekly checks and manages maintenance of the unit, funds for which are held by the Community Council. Periodic training events will be held in the Community Centre; for further information contact the Community Council’s representative on the Defibrillator Committee, Cllr. Eirwen James.

The following links to external sites give guidance on use of the defibrillator, and the procedure for performing Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR):

Location Map

Mae'r dudalen hon hefyd ar gael yn: Cymraeg