We are trying to raise money for an automated external defibrillator (AED) for the parish of West Bagborough (http://www.west-bagborough.org.uk/community/west-bagborough-7827/about-us).

The project has been discussed at the September Parish Council meeting (http://www.west-bagborough.org.uk/community/west-bagborough-7827/documentation/)

Evidence suggests the chance of survival from sudden cardiac arrest reduces with each passing minute. Being a rural community the ambulance response times for a Category Red 1 call are 10 minutes, the chance of surviving are 10% at this point. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) combined with early defibrillation increases the chances of survival significantly.

The Box containing the defibrillator will be located on the village hall, an identical one is already in situ on the village hall in Bishops Lydeard (see picture above).

The funds required are £2,300, although the defibrillator is only half the cost, the cabinet is robust and designed to be secure. The unlock code is obtained from South West Ambulance Service. After placing a 999 call the operator will determine whether a defibrillator will be required and will direct the caller to the box and provide the unlock code.

How to use an AED:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xfvu5FCQs6o

The CPR training will be provided for limited numbers by the charity Heartstart. They are happy to undertake additional training but this may incur additional fees.
http://www.heartclass.co.uk/about.htm
www.bhf.org.uk/heart-health/how-to-save-a-life/how-to-do-cpr/heartstart.