Police given life-saving devices

It is hoped that the devices will help save lives

Twenty-five defibrillators which could save the lives of heart attack victims have been given to police in Dorset.

The electronic devices, which help patients restore their normal heartbeat, have been given to several police units.

The programme, run by the British Heart Foundation and the Department for Health, is aimed at making the devices more accessible to the public.

Funding for the equipment has been provided by the National Lottery.

'Well prepared'

The defibrillators have been allocated to Dorset Police's road policing unit, air support unit, marine section and firearms section, with officers also receiving basic life support and defibrillation training.

Robbie Milham, from the South Western Ambulance Service, said: "Approximately 170,000 people per year suffer from sudden cardiac arrest in the UK and the only treatment is early basic life support and defibrillation."

Acting Insp Andrew Stevenson, from Dorset Police, said: "The provision of such equipment, combined with the training officers have undertaken, will help to ensure we are well prepared to deal with emergency cardiac situations.

"This can be crucial if officers arrive at a scene before paramedics."