Public access defibrillators have been installed at two new locations in North Tyneside.
The devices, commonly known as defibs, are now in place at Preston Cemetery in North Shields and Whitley Bay Cemetery, ensuring emergency help is available to visitors and the local community.
The units are fully registered with The Circuit, the National Defibrillator Network. This means emergency services can direct people to them in a life-threatening situation.
Since being activated, one of the defibrillators has already been used in an emergency.
The equipment was purchased by North Tyneside Council and installed free of charge by Enerveo.
Both have been mounted on posts outside the cemeteries and close to the main entrance gates, where they can always be easily accessed by the public.
Defibrillators are designed to deliver an electric shock to the heart when someone suffers a cardiac arrest, helping to restore a normal rhythm. Easily accessible and simple to use, they can significantly improve survival chances before paramedics arrive.
Councillor Karen Clark, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said: “These defibrillators are an important addition to our community, providing life-saving support. We’re proud to work with Enerveo and our partners to ensure that these devices are easily accessible and ready to be used in an emergency, protecting the health and wellbeing of our residents.”
Sean Middleton, Operations Manager, Street Lighting Newcastle and North Tyneside, said: “ENERVEO are proud to be a part of the installation of two defibrillators in the North Tyneside area, reinforcing our commitment to the safety and well-being of our community. This life-saving addition ensures that in the event of an emergency, immediate and effective action can be taken to help those in need."