Hornton has its own defibrillator, situated on the far wall of the Methodist Chapel, Millers Lane, in the corner of the car park. There is a light mounted just above to easily locate in the dark.
A defibrillator is a device that gives a high energy shock to the heart of someone who is in cardiac arrest. The shock is called defibrillation and plays an essential part in trying to save the life of someone who is in this situation.
In an emergency, dial 999 and the emergency services will locate the nearest defibrillator and give you an access code. There is a keypad on the outside, type in the four digit code, turn the handle and the cabinet will open. Inside you will find the defibrillator in a carry case, take this to the patient.
On the outside there is a green “on” button. Simply press this and you will hear detailed instructions to follow. There is no risk of “shocking” someone who doesn’t need it; the monitor talks you through every step of the process, indicating if the patient needs shocking, or if chest compressions are required the unit explains how to do them. It really is that easy, and you could save a life by knowing how to use it.
The two guardians of the defibrillator are Jane Wain (01295 670716)and Alex Bebb, they check the defibrillator regularly to make sure all is in working order.
The video/animation below explains what a defibrillator is, and how to use a defibrillator on someone who is having a cardiac arrest.
4 steps to take if someone is having a cardiac arrest
Cardiac arrests can happen to anyone, at any time. The following steps give someone the best chance of survival. If you come across someone in cardiac arrest:
- Call 999
- Start CPR
- Ask someone to bring a defibrillator if there’s one nearby (if no one is available to get one, listen to the emergency operator for further instructions)
- Turn on the defibrillator and follow its instructions.
For more information, read this guide to defibrillators from the Resuscitation Council.
Who can use a defibrillator?
You don’t need to be trained to use a defibrillator – anyone can use it. They are simple and easy to use and you don’t need any training. There are clear instructions on how to attach the defibrillator pads. It then assesses the heart rhythm and will only instruct you to deliver a shock if it’s needed. You can’t deliver a shock accidentally, the defibrillator will only allow you to shock if it is needed.