Ludlow is wired up for some lifesaving action (From Ludlow Advertiser)

Ludlow is wired up for some lifesaving action

8:00am Sunday 20th January 2013 in News

LUDLOW’S first heart start machine is now fully connected up and ready for action.

The defibrillator is installed in a secure box outside Ludlow Assembly Rooms with an initial team of nine volunteers trained to use it.

“It has been a great community effort that shows what people can achieve when they work together,”

said Graeme Perks who has led the initiative.

But no one is sitting back and congratulating themselves – work is already taking place to train more people and secure a second defibrillator.

The Ludlow Group is also advising people in Tenbury who are working with the Advertiser to set up their own machines.

Quick guide So what is a defibrillator?

It is a machine that provides an electric shock to help started a heart that has stopped as a result of a heart attack or cardiac arrest.

How does it help?

The sooner treatment is provided after someone has a heart attack of cardiac arrest the better the chance of survival.

A defibrillator provides initial help before emergency services arrive. It is not a substitute and the usual 999 call must be made immediately.

Who can use them?

Anyone who has undergone basic training and the machines are designed to be easily to use with voice instructions. The training also includes CPR techniques and is free of charge.

How much does a machine cost?

A ‘heart start’ machine costs about £1,500 but will need to be installed in a public place in a secure box with a coded lock.

There will also need to be a mobile telephone for use by a roster of volunteers. The overall cost is therefore in the order of £2,000.

How can I help?

The more defibrillators there are the better - but more volunteers are needed to undergo training.