North Wales Fire and Rescue Service helps raise funds for defibrillator at Wrexham salon

Staff from North Wales Fire and Rescue Service recently helped support fundraising efforts for the purchase of a defibrillator for use in the local community.

Almost £1700 was raised through a number of fundraising activities to raise the defibrillator for Toppers Hair Salon in Little Acton.

With rapid treatment critical to the chances of survival, defibrillators can literally mean the difference between life and death for victims of a cardiac arrest.

Neil Upton, Crew Manager at Blue Watch, Wrexham, said: “I was approached by the owner of Toppers Hair Salon, Gladwyn Road, Wrexham to see if there was any way the Service could help to raise funds for a heart defibrillator for use in the local area.

“I suggested using a visit and tour of the new Wrexham Ambulance and Fire Services Resource Centre (AFSRC) as a raffle prize and this was gratefully received.

“The total amount raised from activities including the raffle was near to £1700. From this fund, the defibrillator was purchased through the Welsh Hearts organisation

“The visit to the AFSRC was won by a lady who donated it to her 8 year old grandson.

“This potential future firefighter enjoyed his visit, and supporting this appeal was a good opportunity for the Service to engage with the local community and utilise our reputation, resources and standing in society to help the community help itself.”

Funded by Welsh Government, they are available in clearly identified cabinets fixed outside fire station premises where they can be immediately accessed by members of the public.

More details on your local defibrillator can be found via NHS Direct Wales. Lifesaving defibrillators are also fitted at fire stations across North Wales.