Where to find a defibrillator in Whitby
What is a Defibrillator?
A defibrillator is a device that gives a high energy electric shock to the heart of someone who is in cardiac arrest. This high energy shock is called defibrillation, and it’s an essential part in trying to save the life of someone who’s in cardiac arrest.
There are 28 Defibrillators located around Whitby and we would like to make you aware of where they are and how to use them in an emergency. The map below shows where they are situated, and they are inside unmistakeable bright yellow boxes. Don’t worry too much about finding the nearest one to where you are as when you call 999 the Operator will be able to tell you where the nearest one is located.
What do they look like?
You can’t miss them; they are bright yellow unmistakable boxes.
How and when to use the device.
Cardiac arrests can happen to anyone, at any time. The following steps give someone the best chance of survival. If you come across someone in cardiac arrest:
- Call 999
- Start CPR (Instructions below)
- Ask someone to bring a defibrillator if there’s one nearby
- Turn on the defibrillator and follow its instructions. (You will hear the instructions once you turn on the device)
Who can use a defibrillator?
You don’t need to be trained to use a defibrillator – anyone can use it. There are clear instructions on how to attach the defibrillator pads. It then assesses the heart rhythm and will only instruct you to deliver a shock if it’s needed. You cannot deliver a shock accidentally; the defibrillator will only allow you to shock if it is needed.
To perform CPR, follow these simple steps:
- Step 1: Shake and shout
- Step 2: Check for normal breathing
- Step 3: Call 999
- Step 4: Give 30 chest compressions
- Step 5: Give two rescue breaths
- Step 6: Repeat until you can use Defibrillator or until an ambulance arrives
By using a defibrillator before an ambulance arrives, you can significantly increase someone’s chance of survival.
