Lower Beechmont just became a lot safer with the installation of two community defibrillation units.
Three months of fundraising saw over $9,500 raised, culminating in the installation of two defibrillators, a community first aid training session at the Pink Galah in Lower Beechmont, as well as information packs for every household.
Dean Cording said the catalyst for the fundraising was the collapse of Beechmont Road last year, leaving residents vulnerable to long wait times if an ambulance was needed.
Carpet Hughes of the Defib Shop who ran the first aid course said while front line treatment for sudden cardiac arrest is chest compression and defibrillators, early access to a defibrillator is the key to success.
“You’ve got to have defib on someone in a couple of minutes,” he said.
The two community defibrillators are accessible by the Beechmont community at all times.
Located at the Wagon Stop (half way down the hill on Beechmont Road) and outside at the Yellow Star General Store.
Dean Cording thanked all of the local businesses who supported the community in fundraising for the defibrillators.
“With these lifesaving devices in hand, we have achieved our goal of ensuring that all local residents have access to a defibrillator within 10 minutes,” he said.
“We can’t thank everyone enough for your incredible support towards our community.”
