Free CPR training offered to islanders

Organisers said using CPR and defibrillation on a person in cardiac arrest had the potential to double their chance of survival

Free CPR and defibrillator training sessions will be held in the Bailiwick of Guernsey later as part of an annual campaign.

Restart a Heart Day is run by Resuscitation Council UK to increase the number of people surviving out-of-hospital cardiac arrests by training members of the public.

Sessions led by emergency services personnel will be held in Guernsey's Beau Sejour leisure centre between 09:00 BST and 18:00 and Alderney's ambulance station at Crabby between 13:00 and 14:00.

John Atkins, head of resilience and education at St John Ambulance, said anyone could be affected by a sudden cardiac arrest at any time.

'Fantastic opportunity'

"Without immediate action, the person will die. Recognising when someone is in cardiac arrest, calling 999 and doing CPR are simple but vital skills that might save a life," he said.

Organisers said 80% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happened at home and every minute without CPR and defibrillation reduced the chance of survival by 10%.

Guernsey’s ambulance service is working with the lifeguards at Beau Sejour to deliver the training this year.

"We are delighted to support them in their training sessions and demonstrations," added Mr Atkins.