Killarney Cardiac Response Unit in conjunction with Michael Linehan Killarney Heartsafe group have throughout the summer aimed to highlight the locations of the 16 public access AEDs in Killarney.

These life-saving automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are available 24/7 to the public.

However, it is essential that the public are aware of the nearest device and the simple steps needed to save a life.

"An out of hospital cardiac arrest has the worst possible outcome for survival, mainly because resuscitation is often delayed or not given," Kevin O'Leary from Killarney Cardiac Response Unit, said. "It is vital that resuscitation is started as soon as possible following a cardiac arrest."

A sequence of steps has been developed to provide the best possible chance for survival for a patient with a cardiac arrest, he added. "These are described as the links in the chain of survival, and like any chain, the chain of survival is only as strong as the weakest link. And so each link is of equal value and importance."

The chain of survival

Early Access: recognition of an emergency and calling 999 or 112 for help, early CPR, early defibrillation, early Advanced Life Support (ALS), and early post resuscitation care are essential, he added.

For a full list of locations visit www.killarneycru.ie.