The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has partnered with charity and Mindray distributor, Calon Hearts to ensure defibrillators are installed free of charge by the WRU at every club this season.

The partnership now means that over 300 clubs across the country will benefit from Mindray’s C Series automated external defibrillators (AEDs).

“There are not enough defibrillators in Wales or trained people to give victims the best chance of survival during those first few critical minutes and so we are extremely grateful to the WRU for their support of this initiative,” said Calon Hearts Defibrillators and Screening Wales director Sharon Owen.

“We hope the defibrillators never have to be used, but if they are used many lives in Wales will be saved as a consequence.”

The defibrillators have a zero second charge time and feature 360J biphasic technology in line with Resuscitation Council UK guidelines. With tailored rescue instructions based on the users’ competence, CPR guidance and fast boot up speed, the AEDs are ideal for community usage.

“When someone suffers a cardiac arrest, their chances of survival drop by up to 14% for every minute that passes, so a speedy response is crucial. Early defibrillation – within four to five minutes – gives the best possible chance of survival,” Sharon added.

“With access to more defibrillators at rugby clubs throughout the country, Calon Hearts can help our partners in the emergency services to improve chances of survival and protect our communities.”

Calon Hearts will provide the defibrillator, manage its installation and provide training to relevant volunteers at clubs on use and maintenance of the equipment.

The Calon Hearts charity raises funds across Wales in rural communities, workplaces and schools with the aim of ensuring defibrillators are as commonplace as fire extinguishers in Wales. As a registered charity, Calon Hearts are able to provide defibrillators to their clients at reduced prices. Medical device developer Mindray supplied the charity with the C Series defibrillators in a partnership earlier this year, as the devices met the charity’s requirements.