The Facts

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of Death in Ireland, with over 52% of all Deaths being cardiovascular related. France is one of the lowest in the EU with 13% and Ireland has over double the EU average which is at 25%. About half these deaths result from sudden cardiac arrest. Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating. Most often it is caused by an arrhythmia (an abnormal heart rhythm) called Ventricular Fibrillation (VF) that prevents the heart pumping blood effectively.

Sudden cardiac arrest can complicate a heart attack. Sudden cardiac arrest is most likely to occur during the first hour after the onset of symptoms of a heart attack. Sudden cardiac arrest will result in death unless emergency treatment, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillation are provided immediately. Although CPR doubles the victim’s chance of survival, the definitive treatment for VF is defibrillation with a device called a defibrillator. Some computerised defibrillators, called Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), can be used by healthcare providers and lay rescuers alike.

How can I set up a CFR group in my area.

Step by step

Step 1. Contact www.wicklowcfr.ie and the HSE Ambulance Service.

Step 2. Call a public meeting, elect a committee, have an information meeting.

Step 3. Contact other CFR groups: see website.

Step 4. Organise fundraising locally. This increases awareness.

Step 5. Community grants may be available.

Step 6. HSE Ambulance will arrange a training date and advise on the administration. A representative from a nearby CFR Group would be delighted to help you.

Step 7. Source a local and suitable venue for training e.g. school hall, community hall, etc. Step 8. Try to train 15/20 members.

Step 9. Increase awareness in the community through every means possible, e.g. newspaper notes, fliers, parish newsletter, shop window display, etc.

Step 10. A person must be over 18 years of age and CFR will require the following items: A: Full Driving Licence B: Two ID Photos C: Letter of Reference D. Letter from Insurance Company E. Gardai Clearance F. Completed HSE Application Form

Step 11. Prepare local maps with house numbers and names, check with local Post Office.

Step 12. HSE will advise on equipment needed.

Step 13. How much time is involved? As little or as much as you can give. 

Step 14. If you cannot train you can help with the fundraising, administration, etc.

Step 15. Remember before you set up there was nothing there.