WIGAN ATHLETIC INSTALL LIFE SAVING EQUIPMENT
Wigan Athletic Football Club have welcomed the installation of an automated external defibrillator (AED) donated by North West Ambulance Service (NWAS). The AED will be based in the reception of the DW Stadium and available for non-match day events such as conferences. The Trust has paramedics on site during match days. Ten staff stadium have already been trained to use the defibrillator with more training expected in the future for the DW Sports Fitness gymnasium chain.
Steve Nichols, Community Resuscitation Development Officer said ,‘When an individual goes into cardiac arrest the first few minutes are vital and quick intervention is needed to increase chances of survival. ‘These machines are so simple to use. They give verbal instructions and tell you where to place patches on the patient’s chest. They read the patient’s heart rate and, only if needed, will deliver a shock to re-start the heart.
‘We are delighted that Wigan Athletic are on board and further supports our aim to have AED’s placed in all public areas where there is an increased risk of cardiac arrest. Roberto Martinez said: “The ambulance service do a first class job, and I have nothing but praise for the way they go about their work. This defibrillator will be able to provide a vital emergency service at the stadium.
Anyone interested in more information on AEDs or Community Responder Programmes should Contact 07812 304787 or email manchester.cfrinterest@nwas.nhs.uk