On World Heart Day, celebrated today, the 29th, the Municipality of Gondomar emphasizes the importance of being prepared to respond to cardiac arrest. A cardiac emergency can happen at any time, and the first few minutes are crucial for survival.
In Gondomar, the response to these emergencies goes beyond just having automated external defibrillators (AEDs). The municipality ensures that there are trained individuals ready to use them and initiate appropriate procedures before emergency services arrive.
Currently, the municipality has 35 automated external defibrillators and over 220 certified operators. These devices are installed in swimming pools, sports and school pavilions, municipal service and public access buildings, as well as in two municipal vehicles (one from the Municipal Police and another from Civil Protection).
The ability to act in an emergency also depends on the preparedness of those who may be called upon to use the AEDs. Operator training includes basic life support (BLS) techniques and defibrillator use, preparing them for real emergency situations.
Sudden cardiac death can occur unpredictably. Early intervention, by calling 112, performing basic life support, and using a defibrillator when indicated, helps increase survival chances until medical emergency teams arrive.
In its commitment to the population's protection and well-being, the Municipality of Gondomar has been strengthening its response capacity, investing not only in providing equipment but also in training the people who work and provide services in municipal spaces daily.
To mark World Heart Day, the Gondomar Town Hall building will be illuminated in red. This initiative, in partnership with the Portuguese Cardiology Foundation, aims to raise awareness about the importance of preventing cardiovascular diseases, the leading cause of death in Portugal and worldwide.
