Seconds count when someone suffers a cardiac arrest - that’s why East Anglian Air Ambulance and construction firm Jackson Civil Engineering have teamed up to provide a community defibrillator in Ipswich.

Ipswich Star: Mark Milsom and Jackson staff with the new community access defibrillatorMark Milsom and Jackson staff with the new community access defibrillator (Image: Archant)

Installed at Jackson’s headquarters in White House Road, the new public Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) is directly opposite the White House residential estate, accessible to anyone who may need it in an emergency.

Patrick Peal, chief executive of the East Anglian Air Ambulance, which donated the defibrillator, said: “These AEDs can dramatically improve the outcome of a patient, so placing them in the most accessible location is vital.

“That’s why we chose the Jackson office and we’re thrilled they agreed to provide this lifesaving solution for the local community. “It is a great example of how organisations can provide support for their local communities.”

When someone suffers a cardiac arrest every minute without CPR and defibrillation reduces their chances of survival by 7-10%.

If a defibrillator is used, and CPR started within three to five minutes, their chances of survival increase from six to 74%.

Richard Neall, CEO of Jackson Civil Engineering, said: “The statistics speak for themselves and we’re delighted to be able to offer the AED round the clock, to anyone who needs it.”