A new lifesaving initiative has been launched in Dungiven.

By Ciaran O’Neill

editor@derrypost.com

The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) is working in close partnership with St Canice’s Primary School and St Canice’s GAA club in Dungiven to support a new Defibrillator Scheme and Defibrillator Response Team for the area.   

This joint venture aims to offer a rapid medical response to people who may suffer a heart attack or other condition which would require a defibrillator. 

The overall aim is to save lives by having this vital life saving piece of equipment available to local people when they need it.  

Dungiven Fire Station will house the new community bought defibrillator and other emergency equipment which can be accessed by the 30 volunteers who make up a new Defibrillator Response Team for the area.

The Defibrillator Response Team includes 10 Dungiven Firefighters and 20 other members of the local community who have all been given access to the Fire Station to collect the defibrillator equipment, if it is required for a medical emergency.       

The new defibrillator was bought following fundraising by both pupils and staff at St. Canices Primary School.

The Defibrillator Response Team can be activated by calling 02877740140.

When you ring this number you will activate a message centre and hear an automated message.

Please remember you MUST call for an ambulance first by dialling 999

It is advisable to save this defibrillator emergency response number on your mobile or home telephone.