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RNLI Lerwick seeks donations for defibrillator

Lifeboats News Release

Lerwick Lifeboat station is seeking donations to purchase a public access defibrillator, to be fitted outside the building on Lerwick waterfront.

An AED similar to the one that it is hoped to place at Lerwick lifeboat station

RNLI/Bob Kerr

An AED similar to the one that it is hoped to place at Lerwick lifeboat station
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The total cost is expected to be around £1200 for the defibrillator and protective housing, with funding donations being sought through an online crowdfunding appeal.

An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a portable electronic pack that can provide essential lifesaving support for anyone who has suffered a cardiac arrest. The AED will analyse the heart rhythm and if necessary, deliver an electric shock to help to restore a normal heart beat.

AEDs can be used by anyone, and it's hoped that by installing it in a location in central Lerwick it will be easy to access when needed.

Coxswain Darren Harcus said:
"For anyone in the unfortunate position of having suffered a heart attack, we know that the sooner a defibrillator can be used, the better their chances of survival.

“We'd like to install a defibrillator outside of the lifeboat station, which is obviously close to the waterfront, as well as to many homes, businesses and public areas in the town centre. We will of course be grateful for any support from the community towards the costs of this project."

The purchase of the defibrillator will also benefit from a grant from the British Heart Foundation, which is supporting the placement of public access defibrillators around the country.

Donations towards the defibrillator can be made online at:

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The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives.

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About the author

Bob Kerr
Lifeboat Press Officer, Lerwick Lifeboat Station

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