Club's lifesaving equipment found

Will Johnston

After disappearing two weeks ago, New Plymouth Old Boys’ Rugby and Sports Club’s automated external defibrillator (AED) was returned.

The club shared on its Facebook page on September 13 the equipment had been stolen out of the cabinet on the side of the clubrooms.  

“Please message us on Facebook if you have any info on its whereabouts,” the statement said.

The equipment is lightweight, portable device that analyses the heart’s rhythm and if necessary, delivers an electric shock to help restore the heart.

At the time, many took to social media and showed their concern.

“This is disgraceful. Funded by charity and could cost someone their life,” said Ian Ternouth.

“How low can you be,” Leanne Northcott questioned.

But on Tuesday, the club said it had been returned.

“The AED stolen from the outside cabinet has been returned. We will have it operating again and available as soon as possible.”

Club chairman Roger Well said the club is grateful the unit has been returned.

“It provides a valuable resource for the community and the users of Vogeltown Park,” he said.

It’s unknown who took the device.

There are 163 AED units registered in New Plymouth with 461 in Taranaki. These are placed strategically around the community at shops, sports clubs and high populated areas.  

St John Ambulance’s website said the equipment can increase someone’s survival changes by up to 44 percent.

“Without an AED the chance of survival decreases by 10 percent for each minute that passes without a defibrillation.”