The AEDs are installed in publicly accessible locations, including sports clubs. Photo: St John Tasmania.
The Tasmanian Government is delivering automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) across the state, installing more than 90 in publicly accessible locations.
This instalment is the second phase of the government’s $500,000 Community AED Fund, with a total of 180 free devices delivered over two years.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing Bridget Archer reaffirmed the importance of the program, saying cardiac arrests could happen anywhere at any time.
“Our investment is increasing access to defibrillators in everyday community settings, which can be vitally important for someone having a cardiac arrest,” Ms Archer said.
“These 90 new devices mean more Tasmanian communities are prepared to act quickly and confidently in a cardiac emergency.
“The successful recipients are located right across Tasmania, with a strong focus on rural, regional and remote areas.”
The public locations where the AEDs are being installed include councils, businesses, sporting clubs and community halls.
AEDs are visible via the GoodSAM Responder smartphone app, which uses GPS to show the location of nearby devices and alert registered responders while allowing the ambulance service’s triple zero operators to guide bystanders to the closest defibrillator in an emergency.
The defibrillators are easy to use and do not require training as they have an in-built audio system that provides step-by-step instructions.
More than 1300 AEDs are publicly accessible in Tasmania.
“By working with communities to place AEDs where people live, work and gather, we are helping to provide opportunities to save a life,” Ms Archer said.
“This investment is about prevention, preparedness and partnership to keep hearts beating across our state.”
More information about the AED system is available online.
