BIDFORD residents now have access to life saving equipment thanks to funding from Bidford Parish Council.

A new defibrillator, a device used for someone suffering cardiac arrest, has been fitted at Bidford Fire Station.

Bidford Station’s new device can be used by anyone, however a 999 call is required to access it.

It is easy to use, and instructions are given by the 999 operative over the phone.

The device gives the patient an electric shock through the chest wall straight to the heart and can be an essential life-saving step.

According to the British Heart Foundation sudden cardiac arrest is the leading cause of premature death, however lives can be saved with immediate treatment.

It is particularly important if the ambulance is unable to arrive quickly as the patient’s chance of survival falls by around 7 to 10 percent with every minute that defibrillation is delayed.

Portfolio holder for fire and community safety, councillor Howard Roberts said: “I’m pleased that Bidford Fire Station has been given this vital piece of life-saving equipment.

"With more than 30,000 cardiac arrests outside of hospital each year in the UK, it is a serious and widespread problem. The greater the access to defibrillators, the safer our communities are, so more equipment of this type in Warwickshire is fantastic news.”

Elisabeth Uggerløse of Bidford-on-Avon Parish Council said: “Bidford on Avon Parish Council is delighted to have contributed to the safety of its residents by providing this defibrillator – one of three to be installed in the village.

"It is grateful to Bidford Fire Station for providing the venue for the subsequent training sessions”