Defibrillators in Men’s Sheds
Access to an AED gives you the best possible chance of survival in the event of a cardiac arrest.
Is there one in your shed?
Does your Shed have a an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)?
From the Heart Foundation website:
For someone in cardiac arrest, every minute counts. Know what you can do to help save a life.
- A cardiac arrest is when the heart suddenly stops beating, cutting off oxygen to the brain and vital organs.
- A person in cardiac arrest will be unresponsive and not breathing normally.
- A cardiac arrest is a medical emergency.
- Urgent action from a bystander can help save a life.
- Anyone can help someone who is in cardiac arrest by following Call, Push, Shock.
AED’s can prevent or correct an arrhythmia, a heartbeat that is uneven or that is too slow or too fast and can restore the heart’s beating if the heart suddenly stops.
As men’s sheds are often standalone premises within the community and could be located a long distance away from a hospital or medical help, having immediate access to a defibrillator could improve the chances of someone surviving a heart attack.
There are often grants available to assist a shed to purchase an AED (see Defibrillators Australia).
Be aware that there is a cost to maintain an AED. The pads and battery have a ‘use by date’ and once that date is passed, the AED should not be used. Pads and batteries are available from many sources, including here.
Grant funding for an AED in your shed may also be available from Men’s Sheds of WA and the Australian Men’s Shed Association at different times.
Available grants for AED’s constantly change and MSWA will advise sheds if we become aware of any specific grants available.
You can also register your AED so it can be used by others in an emergency. More information from the St John’s website.
Supported by
Our Patron
His Excellency the Honourable Chris Dawson APM
Governor of Western Australia and Mrs Darrilyn Dawson
