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Defibrillator AED on wall for public use

Rochdale Heartbeat is reminding recipients of defibrillators to properly maintain them after the charity discovered a number it has given out are no longer functional.

Over the last few years, Rochdale Heartbeat has purchased and donated 49 defibrillators to local organisations including schools, sports clubs and churches.

After recently contacting the organisations to make them aware of the British Heart Foundation’s request to register the life-saving equipment with the national defibrillator network, The Circuit, the charity also checked if their donations had been properly maintained to ensure they are still working.

Rochdale Heartbeat said it did not contact the 17 most recent recipients, as those batteries are still in date. One defibrillator was stolen from its box in a park.

Of the remaining 31 recipients, 14 said they had not checked or replaced the battery, meaning the equipment will not work as needed.

Derek White, Acting Secretary of Rochdale Heartbeat, said: “To our surprise and disappointment, we found that around 23 are probably no longer functional. We know for certain that 14 have not been checked, or not replaced the battery, despite knowing it is out of date. Nine are doubtful as they did not respond. Just eight organisations confirmed they have replaced the batteries.

“In many cases checks have never been carried out, some recipients were unaware that they needed to do them despite each defibrillator coming with a manual and being informed at the time the defibrillator was presented to them that they needed to make themselves familiar with the machine.

“In some cases, it is now known that the battery life has expired, but the batteries have not been replaced. In short, the shocking truth is that many of the defibrillators are no longer capable of delivering the required shock. It goes without saying that this puts people’s lives in danger.”

He added: “It has not all been bad news though, as we have had some of the recipients get in touch enquiring as to where to obtain replacement charge packs (batteries) and we have been able to give them the relevant information.

“The battery (charge pack), pads (electrodes) and paediatric pads all have their expiry dates clearly marked. We want to urge all owners of defibrillators to check them regularly (manufacturers recommend a weekly check). 

“In particular you must ensure that the battery and pads are in date.  We are aware that at the present time people are experiencing long delays in the delivery of batteries, so we recommend new ones are ordered at least three months in advance of the expiry date.

“If you need further advice, feel free to contact us at rochdaleheartbeat@gmail.com.”

Defibrillators give a high-energy electric shock to the heart of someone who is in cardiac arrest and is an essential part in trying to save their life.

To help someone who is in cardiac arrest effectively, a defibrillator needs to be found as quickly as possible. For every minute it takes for the defibrillator to reach someone and deliver a shock, their chances of survival reduce by up to 10%.

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