Life-saving heart resuscitators are now available at more rail station platforms in Essex, thanks to funding by the Essex and South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership and the Community Rail Network.
Fifteen Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) have been installed at Greater Anglia’s Althorne, Burnham, Clacton, Colchester Town, Dovercourt, Frinton on Sea, Great Bentley, Harwich, Kirby Cross, Mistley, North Fambridge, Thorpe-Le-Soken, Walton and Wivenhoe stations.
This brings the total funded by the partnership to 22 as the new defibrillators join ones already installed at Southend Victoria, Prittlewell, Rochford, Rayleigh, Hockley, Wickford and Billericay stations.
The defibrillators are small, safe and lightweight and deliver a shock to treat someone in cardiac arrest. They can also monitor the heart’s activity and give instructions to the users.
Anyone can use them. If there is an incident on the station, call 999 to be given a code to open the defibrillator’s storage box and follow the instructions given.
Community Rail Officer, Jayne Sumner, said, “Statistics show that 20% of cardiac arrests occur in a public place.
“There is compelling evidence that defibrillation at the earliest possible point after a person collapses can significantly increase their chances of survival, so it’s vital that this life saving equipment is available in public places, particularly somewhere very busy like rail stations.’
Greater Anglia’s Community and Customer Engagement Manager, Alan Neville, said, “The defibrillators mean that we are well prepared to provide assistance in the event of a first aid emergency.
“We’re very grateful to the Community Rail Partnership and Community Rail Network for funding these defibrillators which could mean the difference between life and death for someone.”
The Essex and South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership helps to keep Essex’s rural rail lines thriving and is funded by Greater Anglia, Essex County Council and local organisations, authorities and partners.
The Community Rail Network is national organisation that supports community-based groups and partnerships that connect their community with their railway and deliver social benefit.
Photo credit: Greater Anglia
