PROGRESS is being made on the mapping of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in the Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens area.
The project is an initiative of the Hawks Nest Tea Gardens Progress Association (HNTGPA).
“We are aiming to end up with a comprehensive, definitive, user-friendly map of AEDs in our area, identifying which are available at all times, a basic description of where to find it at the site, and which are only available during business hours,” secretary Sherrie O’Keefe told NOTA.
“The PA’s membership sees the map as a vital source of lifesaving information and hopes that residents will share awareness of this resource.
“This local audit will also seek to remind clubs and businesses that currently house the devices, of the need to keep them maintained and checked for functionality [and] ideally know the date it was installed, by whom, and when the next check is due.
“We are happy to communicate with nearby villages like North Arm Cove, Pindimar, Bundabah, Karuah and Nerong – this may even set a standard for how and where AED locations are made known, and maybe where some more AEDs [are needed].”
HNTGPA information currently has six AEDs available outside and at all hours.
These are at both caravan parks, the community centre, Jimmys Beach, the IGA and the Tea Gardens Slipway.
The slipway AED is apparently the only one available 24/7 in Tea Gardens.
Kelly Pietsch, owner and Head Trainer of MidCoast First Aid and Safety Training, told NOTA that, “AEDs are a fundamental part of modern First Aid – the last D in DRSABCD.”
This stands for Danger, Response, Send for help, Airway, Breathing, CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation), and Defibrillation.
Many clubs and businesses have gone to the expense of installing an AED for the safety of their members, and Kelly has even offered free “How To Use the AED” seminars so more people know what to do.
“Ideally, the AED map will be posted in strategic places, perhaps including a QR code leading to a website,” Sherrie added.
“This is a non-profit project for the good of the community, and we are open to accepting assistance from any who may be able to help out.”
For more information, contact Thomas at HNTGPA on hntgprogress@gmail.com.
By Thomas O’KEEFE
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