Training shopkeepers to use defibrillators will save lives says postmaster after two deaths in Sharrow Vale
“You don’t want to have to learn to use one in an emergency when every second counts”
The owner of a Sheffield post office is organising free defibrillator training for shopkeepers after two sudden deaths on his street.
Shoppers and businesses on Sharrow Vale Road fought to help on September 11 after an elderly woman reportedly suffered a fatal medical episode in her car.
Tragically, it was reportedly the second emergency of its kind in recent weeks, after a man in his 30s reportedly collapsed and died near the junction with Jarrow Road in early August.
It’s led to one business owner - Abdul Basid, of Sharrow Vale Post Office - reflecting that even though there are two defibrillators on the busy shopping street, staff in the area may not know how to use them in a crisis.
He said: “A couple of weeks ago, one of my own customers, a man I know, had heart problems in the street. He was only in his 30s.
“But then last week someone else driving past had heart problems. Paramedics couldn’t save her.
“These are busy roads with lots of shops, but I wonder if any of us know how to use the defibrillators.
“You don’t want to have to learn to use one in an emergency when every second counts.”
Now, Abdul is organising free defibrillator and basic first aid training for shopkeepers and business owners on Sharrow Vale Road.
Abdul said: “We’ve got the equipment, but do we know how to use it? Do you want to find out when you need one?
“As shops, we are in the right place to help someone if they get into trouble.
“I spoke to one member of staff from a shop here who said they were there when the young man collapsed and how they felt they couldn’t do anything.
“I posted about it in the Sharrow Vale Facebook page and straight away had 30 to 40 shopkeepers say they would want training.
“The sad thing is, I imagine lots of people want training but feel they can’t afford it.
“But after the post, I’ve had offers from organisations all over Sheffield reach out saying they could offer free sessions.”
Namely, Abdul was contacted by Lead trainer Oliver at Sheffield business RGS Cleaning Ltd, which also offers first aid training courses.
RGS began courses after identifying its cleaning staff were often some of the only workers at sites after hours, when a trained first aider’s knowledge could be crucial. Visit their website to learn more.
Abdul said: “I say the more awareness, the better. If something happens, we should feel confident we can do something.
“And if it does cost some money, it’s worth every penny if it saves a life.”
Residents can learn where their nearest public defibrillator is using the British Heart Foundation’s defibfinder.uk website.
For example, there are two of the life-saving devices available on Sharrow Vale Road - one at The Porters Cottage pub, and another outside Hunters Bar Junior School.