Member Article

Dramatic footage inspires HURST to buy defibrillator

A dramatic video showing lifeguards on Sydney’s Bondi Beach using a defibrillator to revive a Japanese student has inspired accountancy firm HURST to buy one of the life-saving machines for its Stockport office.

The footage shows a group of lifeguards interrupt a photo shoot to dash to help a student from Tokyo whose lifeless body was washed up in a surf.

He remained clinically dead for several minutes before the defibrillator and CPR brought him back to life.

HURST staff were shown the film during a presentation on corporate well-being and the firm’s partners immediately decided to act.

They have bought an automated external defibrillator (AED) and arranged training by St John Ambulance experts for six staff at the firm’s offices at Lancashire Gate, Tiviot Dale, in the town centre.

The staff undertook a half-day’s training and received a St John Ambulance certificate following completion of the course.

Partner Simon Brownbill, who was one of those trained to use the equipment, said: “It was an incredible film and, having seen one in action, we immediately decided to invest in a defibrillator and train our staff.

“We hope never to have to use it, but it is reassuring for ourselves and our neighbours to know it is there.”

HURST has invested a total of £2,000 in the defibrillator and training package and Simon added: “If it helps to save one life it will be worth every penny.”

A defibrillator is a portable electronic device that monitors heart rhythms and delivers a shock when prompted to treat people who have suffered a cardiac arrest. By re-establishing an effective heart rhythm, it is a vital piece of life-saving equipment.

If used early, the chances of survival can increase by up to 50 per cent. However, for each minute that passes without defibrillation after the heart stops, the casualty’s chance of survival falls by about 10 per cent.

Andrew Moon, north west regional training manager at St John Ambulance, said: “It’s great to see more and more awareness of the importance of AEDs. HURST has trained a number of staff in their use and the firm’s commitment to the welfare of its people and its clients is commendable.

“Every year, thousands of people die of cardiac arrest when first aid could give them the chance to live.

“The AED machines are now so simple to use that access is the most important thing. It means that anyone can be the difference between a life lost and a life saved in an emergency.”

The photograph shows, L-R, HURST staff Jayne Scott (PA), Chris Kinsey (finance executive), Bev Stoakes (payroll manager), Simon Brownbill (partner) and Dawn Bower (head of secretarial). The sixth member of staff to be trained is assistant manager Rachel Jackson.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by HURST .