One of the questions I often get asked during courses is “Where would I find public defibrillators in an emergency?”
I looked into this and there are websites available, but they obviously take time to load and they may not be kept up to date. The best option is a smartphone app called GoodSAM, which is available for both Apple and Android phones. It comes as two versions GoodSAM Alerter and GoodSAM Responder.
GoodSAM Alerter can be used if you come across a emergency situation. Activate the GoodSAM Alerter app and this will call the emergency services whilst sending out an alert to any emergency responders nearby who may be able to attend the casualty more quickly than the ambulance service. It will also show you the location of the nearest public defibrillators. Having defibrillators brought quickly to a casualty in the event of cardiac arrest vastly improves their chances of survival and although they are relatively simple to use, having a trained First Aider on scene who is confident in their use will be a relief for you.
GoodSAM Alerter showing casualty location
The app can also allow emergency service call handlers access to your phone camera to assist them in providing advice to you on casualty treatment.
If you know of a public defibrillator that is not in the GoodSAM database then you can upload it’s details so the information can be shared with the GoodSAM community.
Trained First Aiders that hold a current certificate or medical professionals can sign up to GoodSAM Responder and choose to receive alerts of nearby situations.
You can find full details of this fantastic app on the GoodSAM website or search for it in the Apple app store or Google Play.
If you would like to become a GoodSAM Responder for your community but don’t have formal first aid training then Medsafe Consultancy has the right training package for you. We offer the one day Emergency First Aid Course and the full three day First Aid at Work Course. Why not organise a group in your local community to become GoodSAM Responders and contact us book one of our courses that can be delivered at a time and place to suit you, including weekends and evenings.
