Kingaroy’s local ambulance committee is calling on community groups and businesses around town to check if their defibrillators are registered with first responders.
Well over 40 automated external defibrillators can be found around Kingaroy – thanks in part to generous donations by the local Rotary Club – but the LAC fears many are not included on the Queensland Ambulance Service’s register allowing paramedics and members of the public to pinpoint the location of the nearest life-saving device.
Kingaroy LAC member Leonie Gavioli explained the importance of properly-registered AEDs.
“When an AED is registered, its location is added to the QAS database,” Ms Gavioli said.
“This allows Triple Zero call-takers to direct bystanders to the nearest available defibrillator while an ambulance is on the way.”
As the register is not publicly available and only accessible by the QAS in case of emergency, AEDs should be registered beforehand to be of use in a crisis situation.
Ms Gavioli said AEDs must be re-registered with the Queensland Ambulance Service every year. As such, even businesses or community groups which have previously reported their device to the QAS are urged to check on the status of their AED.
“In a cardiac arrest, every minute without defibrillation reduces a person’s chance of survival by up to 10 per cent, so knowing exactly where an AED is located can save precious time,” Ms Gavioli explained.
“For businesses, schools, sporting clubs and community organisations, registering an AED is a great way to demonstrate your commitment to public safety,” she said.
“It’s free, takes only minutes, and could help save a life in your community.”
While AEDs are designed to walk the user through the proper procedures, the Kingaroy LAC is still urging Burnett locals to brush up on their life-saving skills by getting in touch.
“AED training gives community members the confidence to act quickly and effectively while waiting for paramedics to arrive,” Ms Gavioli said.
“Our LAC works closely with the Queensland Ambulance Service to support community safety and build community resilience by offering free cardiopulmonary resuscitation [and] AED training opportunities to all ages.
“By learning how to do CPR and use an AED, locals can play an active role in protecting family, friends and visitors to our wonderful region.”
To register your automated external defibrillator with the Queensland Ambulance Service, visit ambulance.qld.gov.au/our-services/aed-registration
To learn how to use an AED, contact the Kingaroy local ambulance committee at lac.kingaroy@gmail.com
