We all know how much fun caravanning can be, yet life on the road can lead to some very remote and regional locations far away from medical help and support. Having a portable defibrillator on-board is one great way to ensure you are prepared in the event that someone suffers a sudden cardiac arrest, and potentially save their life. Safety Dave is Australia’s trusted supplier of quality safety equipment and defibrillators. Simple to use, readily available and more affordable than ever, read on to learn why a portable defibrillator is a must-have safety item for your next caravanning adventure.
Defibrillators Save Lives
Every year around Australia, over 11 million people set off on a caravanning or camping trip, and almost all of these trips (over 90%) occur in regional parts of the country. According to the Heart Foundation, around 40% of these 11 million people are considered a significant risk of a heart attack as they are aged over 55 years. Heart attacks don’t discriminate however, and even younger people can still be at risk. The good news is, if a defibrillator is used within 10 minutes of a heart attack, up to 70% of lives can be saved.
Why Do You Need a Defibrillator?
In Australia, the survival rate of sudden cardiac arrest is estimated to be around 12%, and around 30,000 Australians every year die from a sudden cardiac arrest. The main reason behind this worrying statistic is the requirement for time-critical treatment. It is estimated that for every minute defibrillation is delayed, a patient’s chance of survival decreases by 10%. If you happen to be holidaying in a remote Australian area and the unthinkable happens, without fast access to a life-saving equipment such as a defibrillator, the chance of survival is terrifying slim.
Where Should I Store It in My Caravan?
A defibrillator should be properly stored ensuring it is accessible and ready to use should an emergency arise. Everyone using the caravan or motorhome should know where it is kept so they can grab it in a moment’s notice. Do not place in a locked cupboard as time may be wasted looking for keys. Wherever you store the device within your caravan, make sure that it is always open and accessible and within easy reach in the event of an emergency.
Which Defibrillator Is Best for My Caravan or Motorhome?
A defibrillator perfectly suited for your caravanning and camping adventures should be small, portable and light weight in design. It’s also wise to invest in a weather proof and drop proof case so it can withstand any conditions you find during your trip. You should also keep a general first aid kit in your caravan also, this is handy not only in emergencies but for minor injuries and illnesses as well.
Maintaining Your Portable Defibrillator
Proper maintenance requires a combination of inspecting and testing the device regularly. It is recommended you routinely inspect your defibrillator every three months and perform the following maintenance before you set off on a trip:
- Power up the device to make sure it turns on without a problem.
- Make sure the status indicator light shows the defibrillator is ready to be used.
- Check the additional rescue supplies are available (gloves, razor, breathing mask).
- Inspect the device itself for cracks, wear or damage.
- Check the expiration date of the pads and batteries and make sure they are not expired.
If you are one of the millions of Australians who likes to hit the open road in a caravan or motorhome, investing in a portable defibrillator could be the difference between life and death on your holiday. Browse Safety Dave’s range online today or for more advice get in touch with our team on 1800 072 338.
