AR
UR
Sports clubs for people of determination across the UAE have received eight defibrillator machines to ensure that athletes participating in Special Olympics are able to train safely.
Special Olympics UAE donated the life-saving devices along with training provided to the clubs by the UAE's National Ambulance service.
According to a recent announcement, the efforts are made as part of the “train safely” initiative aimed at ensuring the provision of high-level care for persons with disabilities in a sporting environment. Furthermore, the sports clubs will be receiving 20 more such machines later this year.
An automated external defibrillator (AED) has the potential to restore a normal heart rhythm for individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest.
According to Ahmed Al Hajeri, the chief executive of National Ambulance, Special Olympics UAE is committed to equipping all sports centres with lifesaving AED devices. Such efforts will contribute to improving the infrastructure efficiency of facilities and sports bodies for people of determination along with enhancing the preparedness for emergency situations. He underlined that the latest phase will strengthen the ongoing support for people of determination.
“The success of our partnership with Special Olympics UAE has already resulted in many achievements, including the strengthening of the safety standards offered in the clubs and enhancing the ambulance knowledge and a prevention culture among their coaches," Mr Al Hajeri added.
Reportedly, defibrillation within the first few minutes of a cardiac arrest facilitates the chances of survival to more than 70 per cent. The machines come with an in-built computer that checks for a heart rhythm through adhesive electrodes and calculates the need for defibrillation. In such a case, a recorded voice prompts the rescuer to activate the shock button to momentarily stun the heart.
Coaches have already been trained on how to use the devices and provide general first aid treatment. Rapid access to emergency equipment and first aid can contribute to improving the chances of survival for people who suffer a heart attack.
This phase of the heartsaver initiative has covered eight locations, including clubs for the disabled in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Al Dhafra, Dubai, Al Thiqa, Ras Al Khaimah, Khorfakkan and Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services.
Talal Al Hashemi, national director of Special Olympics UAE, said that the sports programme has been developed as part of a sustainable vision focused on enhancing all aspects of sports sectors such as stadiums, facilities, professional and specialised skills and competencies along with lifesaving technologies and equipment.
“The more we can support their efforts the better the results will be which reflects enormously on our nation’s objective to support people of determination," Al Hashemi added.
The Special Olympics 2019 was held in Abu Dhabi, making it the city in the Middle East to stage the games for children and adults with intellectual and physical disabilities.
SOURCE: The National News