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?
The National Heart Foundation estimates around 15,000 people die unexpectedly in Australia from sudden cardiac death every year.
Defibrillators are devices that restore a normal heartbeat by sending an electric pulse or shock to the heart. They are used to prevent or correct an arrhythmia, a heartbeat that is uneven or that is too slow or too fast. Defibrillators can also restore the heart’s beating if the heart suddenly stops.
The Australian Government’s defibrillator initiative aims to ensure that every men’s shed in Australia has easy access to an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and the training to use it.
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.
If your Shed has not submitted a request for an AED, it’s not too late.
You may still be able to get one – email your request to the Department of Health at MensSheds@health.gov.au.