Things just got a whole lot safer at Central Park's outdoor pool.
This month, the Heart and Stroke Foundation donated an automated external defibrillator to Central Park's outdoor pool as part of the B.C. Public Access to Defibrillation Program.
"We're placing (automated external defibrillators) where there is the greatest chance they'll save a life," said Deborah Rusch, the foundation's public access program manager, in a media release.
About 450 defibrillators are being set up in public areas such as community centres, arenas, recreation centres, playing fields and parks throughout the province over the next two years.
"As a paramedic, I see first-hand tragic effects of cardiac arrest on the patient as well as the bystanders, which are often friends and family," said Geoff Taylor, B.C. Ambulance Service unit chief, in the media release. "I am proud to provide CPR/AED orientation for the community and increase the number of people who can provide valuable, life-saving assistance during a medical emergency."
Central Park staff learned about the "chain of survival" - which includes calling 911, doing CPR and using the defibrillator - in an orientation led by Taylor recently.
"Each year, more than 2,000 British Columbians die from sudden cardiac arrest - someone's friend, parent, child or loved one," said Burnaby North MLA Richard Lee in the release. "The (defibrillator) program could help to save many of those lives."
According to the media release, evidence shows that combining CPR with a defibrillator, or an electrical shock to the heart, increases that survival rate. The portable device reads the victim's heart rhythm and only delivers a shock if it's needed.
See www.bcpad program.ca or www.aed inyourhands.ca.
TOLL-FREE NUMBER FOR EASY ACCESS
Fraser Health has launched a new toll-free Health Service Line.
Those in need of more information about services for themselves or family members, in the Fraser region or not, can call the number.
Callers are connected to trained staff members who can provide on-thespot service in a range of languages.
"Customer service is the number 1 goal of our new service line, and we have created new processes to improve the quality of our service and to make it easier for the public to access the services they need," said Carl Meadows, Fraser Health's director of clinical programs and home health, in a media release.
Staff will identify the caller's health needs and refer them to the appropriate services and, if needed, arrange for a clinic or a home visit.
The phone service includes home support, such as bathing, grooming, toileting and feeding, inhome health care; nursing clinics in all communities; day programs for seniors; and services to give caregivers a break.
The service line is available seven days a week from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 1-855-412-2121.
Send health-related ideas and story suggestions to Stefania, [email protected].
