Life Saving Victoria urges regular checking of defibrillators

With defibrillators a vital part of aquatic facilities' safety equipment, Life Saving Victoria (LSV) is highlighting the importance of undertaking a regular check of automated external defibrillator (AED) equipment.

Vital in the incidence of cardiac arrest, where every second counts, LSV points out “you don't want to be in the middle of an emergency when you discover your defibrillator requires trouble shooting”.

Typically, less than 10% of cardiac arrest patients survive. However, when CPR together with defibrillation are provided within minutes, the patient’s chance of survival can increase by up to 70%.

LSV highlights that AEDs should undergo maintenance regularly, and that most defibrillators will need checking every two to five years depending on the model.

Advising that the implementation of a working and well-maintained defibrillator is best practice for every aquatic centre, Life Saving Victoria Manager - Aquatic Industry Services, Alek Olszewski stated "if an incident occurs on pool deck, you do not have time to be rushing to another area to retrieve an AED.

“It is highly recommended that you have AED located in both wet and dry areas of your centre, and that all elements for that AED, including the pads, are maintained and replaced on a regular basis.”

20% discount on defibrillators
To support the aquatic industry, for the month of February, LSV is providing a special promotion to ensure all facilities are prepared for an emergency.

This includes a 20% discount on all defibrillator items, including replacement pads and other resuscitation equipment.

As a not-for-profit organisation, any proceeds from this promotion will go back into LSV’s lifesaving work in Victorian communities.

Click here to go to Life Saving Victoria’s online shop.