A new effort to tackle Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is being launched in Galway today.
The Heartsafe North West Europe strategy aims to develop a community based, first responder system, to provide rapid initial treatment in emergency situations.
It is based on a Dutch initiative, which uses a dedicated app to alert responders when somebody is in need of urgent assistance.
SCA is one of the leading causes of death in Europe, with a survival rate of just 25% for out of hospital cases here.
In contrast, the Netherlands reports a 45% survival rate.
The Heartsafe NWE project aims to close this gap, enhancing the emergency response in participating regions.
Galway is one of three pilot sites for the project, with similar trials taking place in Germany and Belgium.
The Irish element is being overseen by the heart and stroke charity, Croí.
It says the development of a world-leading, community-based, first responder system could play a significant role in tackling cardiac related deaths.
As part of the plan, the charity is compiling a register of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) that are held by businesses, clubs and other organisations.
This will be combined with a list of certified Cardiac First Responders, who will participate in the simulation-based pilot.
It is hoped the survival rate for out of hospital cardiac arrests can be increased by 10% in the three regions participating.
Those with AEDs are invited to register them on heartbeatnow.ie, while those who have completed a CPR course in the Galway area in the last two years are also being asked to take part.
Organisers emphasise that the project is not designed to replace existing emergency services and in the event of a medical emergency, individuals should still call 999 or 112.
The launch of the project coincides with a new screening campaign being run by Croí, in which free cardiac testing will be provided at a purpose built mobile health unit.
It will operate in Eyre Square in Galway city for the next three days, offering a range of heart related checks to members of the public.
