Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) is on a mission to create an army of lifesavers by offering free sessions on CPR and defibrillator use in a series of livestreamed and in-person events. These efforts are in support of national Restart a Heart Day on Thursday, October 16th.
KSS, known for its expert air ambulance doctors and paramedics, has seen thousands of individuals and groups sign up for their largest-ever education and awareness campaign. These sessions are tailored to various age groups, ranging from four years old to 80+. Participants include school children, families, individuals, businesses, shoppers, Premier League footballers and fans, and holiday makers, all of whom are equipping themselves with the vital skills to potentially save someone’s life in the event of a cardiac arrest.
Statistics show that around 25 people experience a sudden cardiac arrest every day in Kent, Surrey, and Sussex. Sadly, only about 1 in 10 people currently survive. These incidents often occur at home or in private addresses, making it a potential risk for anyone, including loved ones. KSS stresses the importance of knowing what to do in such a situation, as starting CPR and using a defibrillator in the first crucial minutes can more than double someone’s chance of survival before emergency services arrive.
KSS has been actively involved in various events throughout the week leading up to Restart a Heart Day. On Saturday, October 11th, crew members provided CPR sessions at Surrey Sports Park. The following day, they joined Women’s Institute members from across Thanet at Margate Sands to bring attention to the fact that women are less likely to receive bystander CPR than men. Monday, October 13th, saw a team from KSS providing CPR training for hundreds of passengers at London Gatwick’s South Terminal.
On Thursday, October 16th, KSS will be livestreaming CPR and defibrillator awareness sessions to schools, homes, and businesses across Kent, Surrey, and Sussex throughout the day. Interested individuals can sign up at aakss.org.uk/restart. On Saturday, October 18th, KSS will be present at Brighton and Hove Albion’s home match against Newcastle United, raising awareness among the fans about the importance of CPR. The same day, KSS will also be at Bluewater Shopping Centre in Greenhithe, Kent, offering CPR training for shoppers without the need for booking.
Ben Paul, KSS Paramedic and Education Manager, expressed the organization’s determination to continue training as many people as possible in these lifesaving skills. He also emphasized how accessible these skills are to everyone, from four-year-olds to individuals in their 80s. Paul urged everyone to participate and become part of KSS’s army of lifesavers, noting that these skills have the potential to save even more lives in the community.
To learn more and sign up for CPR and defibrillator training on Restart a Heart Day, visit aakss.org.uk/restart.