EVERY day across Victoria 16 people need emergency care because their heart stops beating.
Paramedics across Victoria last Monday (16 October) helped people understand what to do in a life-threatening emergency as part of a global effort on Restart a Heart Day.
Bayside Shopping Centre visitors and people at Frankston Pier were among Victorians learning about cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and how to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
Ambulance Victoria acting CEO Mick Stephenson said only one in 10 people survived a cardiac arrest.
“This Restart a Heart Day we’re encouraging everyone to make sure they know what to do when a loved one’s heart stops beating so more lives can be saved,” Mr Stephenson said.
“Paramedics attend more than 5000 cardiac arrests in Victoria each year and 74 per cent of those happen at home. Knowing CPR could help save the life of someone you know and love.”
Mr Stephenson said every minute that CPR and defibrillation is delayed, a person’s chance of survival decreases by 10 per cent.
“Knowing how to use an AED can double the chances of survival for a patient. The devices are easy to use and provide step-by-step verbal instructions on what to do,” he said.
“It’s a good idea to get familiar with a defibrillator and have a go, just in case you’re ever in the situation where someone’s life depends on it.”
Organisations who have an AED onsite are encouraged to register the device with Ambulance Victoria. You can register an AED or find one in the community at registermyaed.ambulance.vic.gov.au online.