GAA clubs encouraged to register AEDS with National Ambulance Service:

GAA Clubs encouraged to ensure their AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) are registered with the National Ambulance Service.

GAA clubs have long been to the forefront of communities across Ireland and beyond in promoting a healthy and active lifestyle. They have also been proactive when it comes to acquiring and maintaining Automated External Defibrillators in clubhouses and pitches, and there have been many instances in recent times where having a properly functioning AED has saved someone’s life.

Every year in Ireland, unfortunately, thousands of people suffer a cardiac arrest. Early CPR and defibrillation with an AED can double their chances of survival. Knowing where the nearest AED is located can make all the difference when every second counts.

There are an estimated 9,000 AEDs across Ireland. Unfortunately, many are never used because emergency services don’t know where they are or where to access them. This is something that fifth year student Cliodhna Ward from Castleblayney in County Monaghan is looking to address as part of the “30 seconds of your time” campaign.

It is estimated that approximately 17% of AEDs are registered to the National Ambulance Service’s AED Network. Devices registered to this network provide the NAS with vital information – because once an AED is registered here, emergency services can direct bystanders to their nearest AED and therefore increase a person’s chance of survival.

Cliodhna’s campaign centres around encouraging all community groups and clubs to take 30 seconds to ensure that (1) Your AED is ready for use in an emergency, as per the below National Ambulance Service Checklist and (2) Your AED is registered on the NAS National AED Network by using the below link.

These simple actions could prove lifesaving for someone in your community.

Automated External Defibrillator Checklist here – AED Checklist.pdf

Register your AED with the National Ambulance Service here – NAS Online form.

GAA Defibrillator Information Page here – https://learning.gaa.ie/gaadefibrillators