Defibrillator training day to enhance life-saving skills in London

As reported by the London Fire Brigade, New Cross Fire Station in London will hold a ‘Restart A Heart’ training day on Saturday, 5 October 2024.

The event is part of an initiative to teach residents in the Lewisham, New Cross, and Southwark areas how to access and effectively use defibrillators, which are crucial in cardiac arrest emergencies.

The station is encouraging local residents to book a session to learn these vital skills.

Sub Officer Michael Edwards, who is organising the event, highlighted the importance of this training: “With 80% of cardiac arrests happening in the home, it is vital that as many people as possible learn this lifesaving skill.

“It may be a loved one who suffers a cardiac arrest – and it’s crucial to begin CPR and defibrillation as soon as possible to help their chances of survival.”

Addressing the need for accessible defibrillators

The availability of defibrillators in the UK has been a point of concern, particularly in less affluent areas.

According to recent data, 61% of people do not feel confident using a defibrillator, and those living in deprived areas, where the risk of cardiac arrest is higher, often have less access to these life-saving devices.

Sub Officer Michael Edwards emphasised the need for more accessible defibrillators: “Defibrillators are disproportionately placed in affluent areas; we need to ensure they’re located in more locations.

“Anyone looking after a defibrillator – such as those in charge of pubs, sports clubs, community centres, churches, village halls – should make it accessible to the public 24/7.”

A personal story underscores the importance of defibrillators

The significance of defibrillators in saving lives is illustrated by the experience of Cassie Prins, who nearly lost her husband in 2018 due to a cardiac arrest.

She credits the quick action of two bystanders who used CPR and a defibrillator for saving his life.

Cassie supports the New Cross Fire Station initiative and encourages everyone to participate in the training: “Six years on and the availability of machines is even wider and every minute with a defib increases the chances of survival.”

She added: “The machines are so clever these days, they talk you through what you need to do and have pictures so it really is that simple. I would encourage everyone to book on the course.

“Our kids wouldn’t have had their dad without one and some everyday heroes.”

How to participate in the ‘Restart A Heart’ training day

The ‘Restart A Heart’ training sessions will be available on Saturday, 5 October 2024, at New Cross Fire Station, located at 266 Queens Road, London SE14 5JN.

Participants can book a 30-minute session between 10:30 am and 3:00 pm.

The sessions are free, and residents are encouraged to secure their place as soon as possible.

The training aims to empower more people with the skills and confidence to use a defibrillator in an emergency.

For more information or to book a session, visit the event’s page on TicketSource.

Defibrillator training event at New Cross Fire Station aims to save lives: Summary

New Cross Fire Station will host a ‘Restart A Heart’ training day on 5 October 2024 to teach residents in Lewisham, New Cross, and Southwark how to use defibrillators.

The event responds to the need for more widespread defibrillator knowledge and accessibility, particularly in deprived areas.

Sub Officer Michael Edwards stressed the importance of early defibrillation in saving lives.

The event will feature free 30-minute training sessions.

Participants are encouraged to book early to learn these critical life-saving skills.