New Automatic External Defibrillators will now be located prominently outside each of Dublin Fire Brigade’s 14 fire stations across the city and county. In a significant step to enhance community safety, the defibrillators will be available 24/7 to provide immediate assistance especially during critical moments when every second counts.
The installation of the Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) across Dublin’s city and county was prompted by an incident outside Finglas Fire Station in early 2023. Pauline Ryan suffered a cardiac arrest in Finglas village while she was a passenger in a car being driven by her sister, who had the presence of mind to pull into the fire station. At the time, the fire appliance, ambulance and all their medical equipment were out at another call, coincidentally, another cardiac arrest.
However, the district officer and a firefighter/paramedic were fortunately available and performed lifesaving CPR until their colleagues arrived from Phibsborough Fire Station, who then successfully defibrillated and resuscitated Pauline. As the AEDs were simultaneously unveiled across all 14 locations across the city and county, Dublin Lord Mayor Daithí de Róiste said he was honoured to unveil the Public Access Defibrillator (PAD) at Finglas Fire Station, and to be part of the simultaneous launch of the other AEDs across the city. “The life-saving piece of equipment is a positive addition to the local community and to the people of Dublin,” he added.
Dublin’s Assistant Chief Fire Officer Greg O’Dwyer noted that DFB firefighters/paramedics and officers recognise the fire, rescue and medical role they provide in the wider community but also their closest neighbours to DFB’s 14 stations. “We hope that these AEDs never have to be used, but we also hope that the installation of the AEDs provide some piece of mind and reassurance to our neighbours or commuters who pass our stations.” Pauline, whose medical emergency prompted the installation of the AEDs, joined with the firefighters at the launch to mark the international ‘Restart a Heart’ day last October. “Only for the quick actions of my sister, the two firefighters in Finglas Fire Station and their colleagues from Phibsborough, I may not be here today. Knowing what I know now, I would encourage everyone from a young age to learn CPR. It is a life skill, literally,” she noted.
The AEDs are located outside each of the 14 fire stations in a heated secure box. Members of the public can access the defibs by calling 999/112 and stating their location. Simultaneously medical help will be dispatched, and guidance will be given over the phone.
By having these AEDs at the fire stations, Dublin Fire Brigade aims to bridge the gap between emergency services and the public fostering a sense of unity and co-operation within the capital city. Visit www.irishheart.ie for available AED and CPR courses.
