Defib Supplies

Here at Defib Supplies we have supplied 22 defibrillators to the DH9 Foundation, helping protect young people in Dumfries. The foundation, which was established in memory of David Hill, works to raise awareness of sudden cardiac death in young people. David tragically passed away at 30 years old from an undiagnosed heart condition. The DH9 Foundation focuses on improving heart health in individuals under 35 by providing defibrillators in schools and communities. It also funds cardiac screenings through Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY).

Local Fundraising That Makes a Big Difference

Emma Currie, a local woman, led the fundraising efforts that have helped supply these defibrillators. Her motivation stems from a tragedy. Ten years ago, Emma Ross, a 10-year-old girl, collapsed from cardiac arrest in Heathhall Primary School’s playground. Although she survived the initial collapse, she passed away three years later due to severe brain injuries. This loss has had a lasting impact on the community.

Emma Currie was determined to take action. In 2017, she raised funds to ensure a defibrillator was installed at Cargenbridge Primary School. Now, she has taken her efforts even further. Her latest campaign has raised enough money to install 22 defibrillators in schools across Dumfries. The DH9 Foundation will manage the installation and provide maintenance support. Schools can contact the foundation when they need replacements for batteries or pads.

Why Schools Need Defibrillators

Cardiac arrest doesn’t only affect adults; young people are at risk too. The availability of defibrillators in schools can save lives. Every second counts during a cardiac emergency, and having a defibrillator on hand can mean the difference between life and death. These devices deliver a shock to the heart to restore its normal rhythm, giving the person the best chance of survival.

Schools across Dumfries are now equipped with life-saving tools, thanks to these defibrillators. With simple instructions, defibrillators are designed to be used by anyone in an emergency, even if they aren’t medically trained. It’s a critical step toward ensuring schools are prepared for cardiac incidents. Our range of Defibrillators for Schools helps schools find the right equipment and learn how to use it.

Creating a Heart-Safe Environment

Organisations like the DH9 Foundation and Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY) are working to make communities safer by promoting heart health and increasing awareness of cardiac risks in young people. CRY advocates for cardiac screenings, particularly for people under 35 who may have undiagnosed heart conditions. Combining screenings with readily available defibrillators strengthens the safety net for young people.

Defibrillators are essential in schools. They allow staff to take quick action during emergencies. But preparation is key. Training staff in CPR ensures they’re ready to use defibrillators effectively. The DH9 Foundation also offers CPR training, which empowers teachers and school staff to handle cardiac emergencies with confidence. Defib Supplies provides resources to support communities and schools in offering CPR and AED Training.

Maintaining Defibrillators in Schools

Supplying a defibrillator is just the start. It’s crucial to maintain these devices to ensure they’re always ready for use. The DH9 Foundation will work with schools to ensure they replace batteries and pads when needed. Proper upkeep of defibrillators makes sure they remain in good condition for emergencies. Schools can find helpful advice on maintaining their devices in our Troubleshooting Resources section.

Emma Currie’s work and the support of the DH9 Foundation highlight the power of community action. By providing defibrillators in schools, they’re making a lasting impact. Primary schools in Dumfries are now safer places, thanks to these life-saving devices. Defib Supplies is proud to support this initiative, helping to improve heart safety in the community.

Take Action: How You Can Support Cardiac Health

This effort is part of a broader push to improve heart health awareness across the UK. You can also contribute to creating heart-safe communities by donating, fundraising, or raising awareness. Our Community Fundraising Event blog explains how to equip local areas with defibrillators.

For more information on how defibrillators can help save lives, visit our website. You’ll find advice on choosing the right defibrillator and keeping it in top condition. You can also visit the NHS’s cardiac arrest page to learn more about what happens during a cardiac arrest and how defibrillators can help.