The British Heart Foundation reminds us there are over 30,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCA) every year in the UK, but the survival rate is incredibly low – with just 1 in 10 people surviving. London’s West End is the world’s top shopping destination with over 200 million people visiting each year, so our Street Patrol Team must respond quickly to support the Emergency Services in the event of an incident like a cardiac arrest.
From this month, up to 4 portable Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) will be available for use during the day time and one during the evening, which will be carried by trained members of the Street Patrol Team. The AEDs can automatically detect abnormal heart rhythms that can cause cardiac arrest and can deliver the shock required to potentially save a person’s life.
This fantastic initiative was overseen by New West End Company (NWEC) Security and Operations Manager Dylan Gwinn, who said:
“The safety of our colleagues and customers is of paramount importance, and the introduction of AEDs across the district further enhances the resilience of London’s West End. By rolling out AEDs, we are giving our businesses a further level of reassurance and preparedness while ensuring that our district remains a safe and secure place for those who live, work and visit.”
On discussing the initiative, FGH Security Operations Director Ben Knott said;
“Our Street Patrol Team are one of the best trained Security Teams in the UK and Keeping People Safe is our company purpose, so when we were approached by Dylan and the team at NWEC about our Security Officers carrying AEDs and being trained in their use, we absolutely embraced it. Like so many people I have lost loved ones to heart related issues, so I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone at NWEC for investing in this incredible initiative that may one day save someone’s life”
In the case of any medical emergency, always call 999 and ask for the London Ambulance Service in the first instance. If you or your business requires the use of an AED, New West End Security day and night-teams can be reached directly on 07900 738810.
