Mayfield & Ellastone have defibrillators

A defibrillator is a machine that delivers an electric shock to the heart when someone is in cardiac arrest. These machines can also be called AEDs (Automated external Defibrillators). Anyone calling 999 will be given the code required to remove the kit if someone is in cardiac arrest. No training is needed to use the machine, which will electronically ‘talk’ the user through the step by step process of administering an electric shock if it detects an abnormal heart rhythm.

There are public defibrillators in both villages.

• Mayfield:   1 – Conygree Lane Memorial Hall wall      2 – At the Pavilion.

• Ellastone:  1 – Ellastone Parish Hall   2 – Outside Roston Castings.

If someone has a heart attack, or you suspect that is the case, you should phone 999.

If you live within 200 metres of a defib 999 they will provide the code for the nearest box. Someone should commence CPR if possible and another person should go to fetch the defibrillator. Never leave a patient alone.

Once back with the patient, the defibrillator lid should be opened and the box starts talking very slowly and clearly to you. Basically look at the picture on the sticky pads and it shows you where the pads need to be fixed on the chest.

The defib analyses the patient automatically and if there is what is known as a shockable rhythm, the defibrillator will instruct you to press the shock button.

The instructions are very loud, very clear and very easy to follow. The operator on the end of the phone will not ring off until a paramedic arrives so you will be supported throughout. You do not need to make any decisions.

Watch the video clip on the Heartstart video clip to find out more. When someone goes into cardiac arrest, every minute without CPR and defibrillation reduces their chances of survival by 10%.

Our local First Responders are willing to provide basic Heartstart training –  EMAIL us.