Public encouraged to be aware of AED locations

The public in Waterford are being encouraged to make themselves aware of the locations of AED (Automated External Defibrillators) across the city and county.

A campaign was initiated around awareness, ahead of Valentine's Day in conjunction with Purple Flag Waterford.

In an online post on Waterford City & County Council's website, a statement read: 'As Valentine’s Day approaches, hearts are on our minds, and Purple Flag Waterford, in collaboration with wardens from Waterford Local Community Safety Partnership, is using this opportunity to update and inform the public about the locations of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in Waterford City, Tramore, Dungarvan and several GAA clubs.'

Purple Flag Waterford, renowned for its efforts to enhance the night-time economy, is equally committed to promoting community health and safety.

As part of this initiative, Purple Flag aims to ensure that residents and visitors are equipped with vital information about AED locations in town centres to help them respond swiftly in an emergency.

Commenting on the initiative, Julie Walsh from Waterford City and County Council said: “While Purple Flag is primarily associated with night-time entertainment, we are also dedicated to fostering a safer, healthier community."

"The accessibility of AEDs is a key component in providing the public with the tools they need to respond effectively in an emergency," said Ms Walsh.

"We’re proud to be working with the Waterford Local Community Safety Partnership wardens to ensure this crucial information is readily available to all," she added.

An AED is a user-friendly, life-saving device that can be the difference between life and death in a cardiac emergency. 

There have been numerous occasions in the past, not just in Waterford but also around the country, where the use of such equipment and having people in the community with the knowledge of how to use them, helped save lives.

With just a few simple steps, a bystander can use an AED to potentially save the life of someone in cardiac arrest.

The updated AED location list is an invaluable resource for the public to familiarise themselves with the locations of AEDs throughout the city and county.

Th updated list of AED locations is now available on the Waterford City and County Council website and is freely accessible to the public.

In the event of an emergency, dial 999 or 112 immediately.