Lifesaving defibrillator erected in Carndonagh, courtesy of Inishowen Credit Union

A new defibrillator has been installed in Carndonagh to help those who suffer an emergency cardiac arrest.

The life-saving community device has been installed courtesy of Inishowen Credit Union, and it’s located at the Carndonagh branch office, along busy Station Road in the town.

The defibrillator has been funded through the Inishowen Credit Union’s Community Fund, and it’s the latest in a series of such devices, which the local financial institution has already rolled out across the peninsula.

Community-run AEDs [Automated External Defibrillator] are designed to respond immediately to those suffering cardiac issues before the paramedics arrive on scene: every second is vital in such life-or-death scenarios.

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Defibrillators are operated by members of the public, who follow visual and audio prompts provided by the easy-to-follow machine itself.

An Inishowen Credit Union spokesperson explained: “We’re so pleased to announce another defibrillator has been installed as part of our Community Fund; this time right outside our Carndonagh branch!”

“Knowing where your nearest defibrillator is can save lives – take a moment to locate yours today,” they added.

Meanwhile, around 5,000 people in Ireland suffer a sudden cardiac arrest every year. A patient’s chance of surviving decreases by an estimated 10 per cent with every passing minute without intervention. A defibrillator can be the difference between life and death.