We count ourselves very lucky to have a defibrillator here in Woodham Walter, housed within the old phone box in the centre of the village. This was purchased by the Church community in 2019.
A defibrillator is a simple machine that is designed to be very easy to use even in a very stressful situation. Up to now we have also had a defibrillator help team too, but unfortunately, the criteria for supporting a patient has changed so we are now unable to do this anymore without imposing significant liability on the volunteer.
This does not take anything away from the defibrillator as they are self-explanatory and very user friendly.
Given the time critical nature of using a defibrillator we are looking to raise more funds in the coming year for a second defibrillator to be located in the outskirts of the village.
The defibrillator is checked monthly and registered with The British Heart foundation so it is always in top working order.
What to do in an emergency
· Dial 999
· The operator will advise you what to do.
· If you are told to get the defib from the cabinet, you will be given the access code.
· Follow the verbal instructions from the machine
Although Woodham Walter is 10 miles away from the ambulance station, there are also First Responders who are a highly trained voluntary group that are more local and are dispatched by the ambulance service.
If anyone would like any information on the defibrillator, or any thoughts on a potential second device, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Gill_orford@hotmail.co.uk