The Three Keys of Preparedness
Training, Drills and Key Products Such As a Portable Welch Allyn Defibrillator
The best way to avoid a tragedy in any environment is through the three keys of diligent preparedness: making certain all locations have the best safety and emergency medical products, ensuring everyone has proper safety and CPR training, and through implementation of practice drills. Following are three keys to make sure you have the top equipment, training and preparation strategies in place for your family or your business.
Emergency Medical Products
Take inventory to be sure each necessary area of your home or office has first aid as well as emergency medical products including portable Welch Allyn defibrillator pads and units. According to OSHA, the supplies must be adequate, should reflect the kinds of injuries that occur, and must be stored in an area where they are readily available for emergency access. A heart defibrillator (AED) should be considered when selecting first-aid supplies and equipment.
Local fire departments and emergency medical services may be able to provide recommendations on the proper EMS equipment. In addition, make sure that all equipment is well maintained, tested frequently and the path to reach the equipment is easily accessible. OSHA also recommends reassessing the demand for defibrillator pads, units and other supplies and adjusting inventories. Most importantly, notify all stakeholders on the whereabouts of the equipment so they are prepared when an emergency strikes.
Proper Safety and CPR and AED Training
When portable defibrillators are available such as the Welch Allyn defibrillator, proper training on how to use the device is a key component to its success. Organizations such as the American Red Cross provide training in addition to other life-saving programs such as CPR and first aid. According to the Red Cross, its first aid, CPR and AED programs are designed to give you the confidence to respond in an emergency situation with skills that can save a life. Review procedures annually to ensure everyone is well versed in safety.
Readiness Preparation Practice Drills
Purchasing and owning a portable Welch Allyn defibrillator such as the
Welch Allyn AED 10 and having individuals trained in safety are great first steps in a preparedness program. However, mock drills are key to helping you better understand the process and identify glitches that might occur during emergency situations. Conducting mock drills at least twice a year is of utmost importance to be certain you are prepared for unforeseen disasters such as fire, hazardous weather, an accident or health issues.
Here are some guidelines for planning a mock drill:
A drill should be conducted soon after each CPR/
AED training.
Drills should be conducted regularly at least twice a year. This also provides an opportunity to test units and check expiration dates.
Participation is key. Get people involved! It is important everyone is familiar with the emergency response plan.
Inquire with your local emergency medical service or fire department for their availability in assisting with scenarios.
Notify all those involved when you will be conducting a mock drill.
Be sure everyone in your home or business is aware of the location of your portable Welch Allyn defibrillator.
For further details on how to create your checklist and verify you have the proper equipment including a portable Welch Allyn defibrillator as well as corresponding portable
defibrillator pads and accessories, please visit the OSHA website.
