St John Ambulance Victoria has extended its Defib In Your Street Program to Sunshine, a suburb which has one of the highest rates of out of hospital cardiac arrests in the state, according to the organisation.
Now Brimbank council, St John Ambulance and the wider community, are working together to turn that around.
As part of the free training initiative, residents in Sunshine and surrounds will gain essential information around responding to emergency situations, including managing unconscious casualties, performing CPR and using a defibrillator (AED).
Broadly, the Defib in Your Street Program hopes to ensure rapid access to defibrillators in crucial moments of cardiac emergencies.
These devices are strategically placed in accessible locations across Sunshine, empowering the community to respond promptly and effectively in times of need.
According to the council, by getting more people in the community trained in CPR and aware of the overarching program, Sunshine could be transformed into a safer place, equipped to face sudden cardiac arrests.
A number of locals, including Sam and Jude, have completed the course — with both emphasising the benefits.
Sam learnt how to operate defibrillators for a simple yet significant reason.
“To protect my family, my staff and my community,” he said.
As of July last year, St John Ambulance had successfully installed 28 life-saving defibrillators throughout Sunshine.
For Jude, knowing her way around one of those was crucial – something the course and program helped facilitate.
“I believe in being prepared to help others in any situation.
“I believe in being prepared to help others in any situation. As a fitness professional and community advocate, knowing CPR and defib operation is a non-negotiable for me – it’s about giving people the best chance when seconds count.
“Defib in Your Street empowers locals to take action in life-or-death situations, and that’s a reflection of the heart and resilience that defines Brimbank.”
The free classes are run every Tuesday morning at the West Sunshine Community Centre and every Friday afternoon at Visy Cares hub in Sunshine, located next to the Sunshine Library.
To book a spot visit: www.stjohnvic.com.au/first-aid-training/first-aid-courses/defib-in-your-street-first-aid-training/
