Girona Boosts Hunter Safety with Automated Defibrillators
The province of Girona is enhancing the safety of hunters and nature enthusiasts by equipping hunting parties with automated external defibrillators (AEDs). This initiative aims to combat the risk of cardiac arrest, which is a leading cause of sudden death.
Driven hunts, popular in Girona, can cause moments of intense physical exertion and stress, increasing the risk of heart issues among hobby hunters. To tackle this, the Catalan Hunting Federation is now providing AEDs for these hunts.
AEDs are designed for safe use by laypeople and can significantly improve survival chances. Every minute without CPR and defibrillation reduces survival rates by about 10%. These devices automatically analyze heart rhythm and provide clear, audible instructions. Furthermore, they are geolocated, enabling swift intervention by emergency services and real-time tracking via apps like Infocaça. This allows not only hunters but also other users of natural spaces to locate nearby AEDs quickly.
By implementing this initiative, Girona is taking a proactive approach to hunter and user safety. While the Canton of Geneva has moved towards abolishing hunting to protect wildlife, Girona maintains regulated hunting practices and is now bolstering safety measures with AEDs. This step aligns with the goal of improving the overall experience and well-being of those who enjoy the natural environment.
