Shocktober is a month-long campaign focuses on the critical importance of learning cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED). With around 21 Victorians experiencing a cardiac arrest each day and only one in ten surviving, the urgency for immediate action becomes clear.
Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is a serious medical emergency that occurs when the heart unexpectedly stops beating. This sudden loss of blood flow can be fatal within minutes. SCA can affect anyone, anywhere, and at any time, which is why it’s vital for everyone to be prepared. Time is critical; for each minute that passes without CPR, a person’s chance of survival decreases by 10%. However, when CPR is administered alongside a shock from an AED before emergency services arrive, the odds of survival can more than double.
As part of the Shocktober initiative, Restart A Heart Day on 16 October is dedicated to raising awareness and educating the community about the importance of CPR and AED usage. This global effort highlights the necessity of widespread knowledge in these areas to enhance survival rates for cardiac arrest victims.
Moreover, October is not only recognized as Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month, promoting the use of AEDs, but it is also Work Safe Month, which encourages businesses and individuals to prioritize safety in workplaces, covering both physical and psychological well-being.
The Importance of AEDs
An AED is a crucial device in the event of a cardiac arrest. It delivers a controlled electric shock to the heart, helping to restore its normal rhythm. AEDs serve as a vital link between the onset of SCA and professional medical help, significantly increasing the chance of survival.
One of the best features of AEDs is their user-friendly design. They come equipped with clear visual and voice instructions that guide users step-by-step, making them accessible to everyone—regardless of prior training. The simplicity of these devices means that bystanders can act swiftly, which is essential in emergencies. Additionally, there are legal protections for anyone who attempts to help, ensuring that using an AED poses no risk to the helper or the patient.
This Shocktober, let’s make safety and preparedness our top priorities because every heart matters. By learning CPR and familiarizing ourselves with AEDs, we can all play a crucial role in improving the chances of survival for those experiencing cardiac arrest.
To help support this important cause, we’re excited to offer a special promotion: the Zoll AED Plus Fully Auto is available at a fantastic price, but only for the first five buyers. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to equip yourself with life-saving technology!
Take action now and explore our selection of AEDs by visiting Emergency.com.au. Together, we can enhance community readiness and save more lives. Let’s make this Shocktober memorable!
Sources:
Ambulance Victoria. (n.d.). Shocktober. Retrieved from https://www.ambulance.vic.gov.au/shocktober/
Heart of the Nation. (n.d.). Shocktober. Retrieved from https://www.heartofthenation.com.au/shocktober
