Defibrillators in Action – Empowering Communities and Saving Lives

Around thirty thousand people suffer an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest every year. While defibrillators are commonly placed in public spaces for rapid response to sudden cardiac arrests, fewer than five percent receive bystander defibrillation.

Our Involvement

This year has been the start of a new approach of defibrillator adoption amongst our network.

Proudly, Rainbow Restoration has installed defibrillators in Central Office and four other branches, covering around ten percent of our network. Notably, Rainbow Restoration Portsmouth has incorporated a defibrillator into ‘Evie the EV’, our first electric van, emphasising our commitment to adopting defibrillators into our network.

Paul Ryan, the branch director for the Portsmouth branch, has had his own defibrillator fitted on the side of his house. This is great addition for his local community as a life saving resource as well for himself and his family.

Time is a critical factor, and the immediate use of a defibrillator significantly improves survival chances. Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators are surgically implanted devices for continuous heart rhythm monitoring.

We are striving for all of our company vans to have defibrillators fitted as well, with 3 more booked in already from across the UK.

Training and Education

The defibrillators and training for the Portsmouth branch was provided by The Oliver King Foundation. While Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are designed for easy use, training programs enhance their effectiveness.

The Oliver King Foundation is a UK-based charity organisation that advocates for the placement of AEDs in schools and public places.

The foundation was established in memory of Oliver King, a 12-year-old boy who tragically passed away from sudden cardiac arrest during a school swimming lesson in 2011. The goal of the foundation is to raise awareness about the importance of AEDs and to campaign for legislation requiring their installation in schools and public spaces.

The organisation seeks to prevent similar tragedies by ensuring that life-saving defibrillators are readily available in locations where cardiac emergencies may occur.

Mark King gives it his all and has been travelling all over the country to deliver training on how to use the defibrillators and where they can be located.

Since last year, Rainbow Restoration has been a key supporter to The Oliver King Foundation. Mark King and his team have given Rainbow Restoration training in two branches so far and three more branches are soon to receive training.

Mark King from The Oliver King Foundation.

The Importance in Our Community

Defibrillators, especially AEDs, are invaluable assets for communities, significantly enhancing public safety.

• Their immediate response to sudden cardiac arrest ensures quick intervention, leading to higher survival rates.
• Through training programs, community members are empowered to take an active role in emergency situations.
• The presence of defibrillators not only reduces response times during cardiac emergencies but also positively influences the community’s perception of safety.
• In addition to their life-saving potential, defibrillators contribute to overall public health by addressing cardiac incidents promptly.
• Legal protections such as Good Samaritan Laws encourage individuals to use defibrillators without hesitation, creating a more resilient and prepared community.

Ultimately, defibrillators play a crucial role in shaping a positive and health-conscious community image while ensuring the well-being of residents and visitors alike.

Our website showcases the latest advancements Rainbow Restoration has made with our partnership with The Oliver King Foundation and installing defibrillators into our network.

If you’re interested in having training for a defibrillator or acquiring one, please get in touch with The Oliver King Foundation.