“The Barbican Centre has installed a defibrillator in the reception area of its premises at William Street, Drogheda.
Barbican Manager Declan Power told Drogheda Life that the decision to install the new Automated Electronic Defibrillator (AED) came about as part of the centre’s health and safety policy.
“It has always been our commitment to ensure that every patron and customer has an enjoyable and safe experience at the Barbican Centre” he said.
“Now the AED unit is available and may even prolong the life of a person in the event a cardiac arrest or heart attack. All of our staff are trained and qualified to use the unit if required.”
The AED unit and staff training was provided by Drogheda based company EMS and Associates whose Managing Director Niall Edwards praised the Barbican for their foresight in installing the potentially lifesaving equipment.
“We (EMS) installed the AED (Defibrillator) Machine because Manager Declan Power felt it was important to be in a position to assist a person in the event of sudden cardiac arrest.
“EMS and Associates supplied the machine and provided Irish Heart Foundation, Heartsaver AED, training to staff” Mr. Edwards said.
“More places should look to installing AEDs, particularly venues that have a large attendance” he said.
“According to the Irish Heart Foundation there are 5,000 deaths every year in Ireland from sudden cardiac arrest and 70% occur out of hospital.”
Courtesy of Drogheda Life.