Carnoustie and East Haven have a number of public access defibrillators some of which are available 24/7.
This Google Map shows the locations (scroll to the bottom of the page for the map as well) that hold an automated External Defibrillator (AED) for use by the public in the event of a cardiac arrest in Carnoustie.
In the event of a cardiac arrest you MUST dial '999' and follow the instructions of the staff at the Ambulance Control Centre. If you are the only one in attendance with the casualty you MUST commence hands on compressions (CPR) as instructed by them. The Ambulance Control Centre will advice you of the nearest AED if there is another person available, to collect the AED from the nearest location. To operate the AED, press the 'green button' and follow the instructions.
The AED should be returned as soon as possible, and telephone 07515 109382 and leave a message and advise the Guardian of the AED for maintenance purposes.
How to use a defibrillator
Defibrillators are very easy to use. Although they don’t all look the same, they all function in broadly the same way. The machine gives clear spoken instructions. You don't need training to use one.
Watch this short film and learn how a defibrillator works.
- If you come across someone who is not breathing or breathing erratically, the most important thing is to call 999 and start CPR to keep the blood flowing around the body. After a cardiac arrest, every minute without CPR and defibrillation reduces someone's chance of survival by 10 per cent.
- If you're on your own, don't interrupt the CPR to go and get a defibrillator. If it's possible, send someone else to find one. When you call 999, the operator can tell you if there's a public access defibrillator nearby.
- Once the defibrillator is open and in position, all you have to do is follow the spoken instructions. Many defibrillators will also have diagrams or a screen to help you. The defibrillator detects the heart's rhythm, it won't deliver a shock unless one is needed.
- Often you’ll need to press the shock button although some fully automatic defibrillators will deliver the shock themselves. You should resume CPR as soon as instructed by the defibrillator.