An initiative between Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) and its facilities management delivery partner RFM has resulted in the installation of three new defibrillators in Glenrothes, Fife.
Located at Collydean Church, Markinch Scout Hall and Glenrothes Fire Station, the public access defibrillators were in need of upgrade and, with the local community unable to source funding, they were at risk of being withdrawn.
RFM stepped in to fund and install new vital devices as part of its social impact commitment with SFRS. The partnership has now delivered 26 newly installed or repaired defibrillators across Scotland at no cost.
William Heaney, Managing Director - Scotland, RFM, said: "Working in close partnership with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service over the past four years, we have developed a strong understanding of its estate, its efforts to keep communities safe and resilient, and the needs of local people. A key focus of our work has been creating a lasting, positive impact where we operate, including supporting the delivery of defibrillators in key locations.
"By ensuring these devices remain operational and accessible, we are helping to provide vital support in emergency situations and giving people the best possible chance of survival."
Area Commander Lee Turnock, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Local Senior Officer for Clackmannanshire, Fife, and Stirling, said: "These installations within Glenrothes, including the one at Glenrothes Community Fire Station, represent another positive step in our commitment to supporting resilience and helping to protect our communities.
"We know that in a cardiac emergency, every second counts, and having a publicly accessible defibrillator available locally can make a real difference before emergency services arrive.
There are more than 40,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests in the UK each year, with a survival rate of less than 1 in 10. The timely use of a defibrillator dramatically improves the chances of survival, making access to this equipment in local communities critical.
All three devices in Fife are publicly accessible 24/7, giving residents and visitors the chance to act quickly in an emergency.
The Fife branch of RAYNET, the UK's national voluntary communications service, will now look after the management of the defibrillators.
RFM became delivery partner of choice for SFRS in 2022, the world's fourth largest fire and rescue service, handling all planned preventative and reactive maintenance tasks across its logistically diverse estate. RFM is also responsible for delivering of small and minor capital projects.
