As part of Siemens Mobility’s ongoing work in Scotland the company has donated two defibrillators to South Gyle and Dalmeny stations through a partnership with ScotRail and Street Soccer Scotland.
With around 3,700 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occurring in Scotland each year, rapid access to a defibrillator is critical, increasing survival rates by 50 –70% if used within three to five minutes.
Michelle Mattinson, project manager at Siemens Mobility UK&I, said: “A defibrillator tells you exactly what to do, there’s no training needed. If someone is having a cardiac arrest, it simply needs to be switched on, and it will talk you through each step.
“The reason we’ve donated these devices is to look after passengers and communities first. Our partnership with ScotRail and Street Soccer Scotland will help improve emergency response at these stations which didn’t have these life-saving pieces of kit before.”
Graeme Baillie, ScotRail safety & sustainability director, commented: “Safety is at the heart of everything we do, and having access to a defibrillator can make a life-saving difference in an emergency.
“We’re grateful for our partnership with Siemens Mobility and Street Soccer Scotland, and for the donation of these devices. They will help protect our customers, colleagues, and the wider communities around South Gyle and Dalmeny stations.
“The defibrillators will be registered on the national network, ensuring emergency services can quickly identify their location when every second counts.”
Gerry Britton, chief operating officer at Street Soccer Scotland, added: “We are delighted to be able to support our partners, Siemens Mobility and ScotRail with the installation of this vital lifesaving equipment in the community. We know that in an emergency, every minute matters and having a defibrillator close by can make all the difference in trying to save someone’s life.”
The donation comes as Siemens Mobility delivers signalling and electrification upgrades along the route as part of the £342 million Scottish Government investment to electrify the Fife and Borders lines, enabling future battery-electric train services in the future.
Image credit: Siemens Mobility
