Falkirk Council is set to equip all its primary and secondary schools with external Public Access Defibrillators (PADs), significantly enhancing emergency response capabilities within the community. A total of 37 new devices will be installed, bringing the number of defibrillators available at Falkirk schools to 50.
The first 10 defibrillators have already been delivered, with the remaining units scheduled for arrival by the end of the year. Installation into heated external cabinets is planned to commence in January 2027. These devices will be accessible to the public, pupils, staff, and visitors around the clock, seven days a week.
In the event of a cardiac emergency, members of the public are advised to call 999. Ambulance control will then be able to direct callers to the nearest available defibrillator and provide the necessary access code for the cabinet.
“"Schools are at the heart of our communities and are places people know and trust. By locating this equipment at schools across Falkirk, we're helping ensure it is close at hand when every second counts. This is about giving communities the best possible chance to act quickly when someone needs urgent help."
Councillor Iain Sinclair, spokesperson for Education, highlighted the critical difference these devices can make during a cardiac arrest. He emphasised that placing defibrillators in trusted community hubs like schools ensures rapid access during life-threatening situations.
As part of the initiative, pupils will receive training on the function and use of defibrillators. Jon Reid, Director of Education, stated that equipping young people with these practical skills is invaluable for their future lives.
All installed defibrillators will be registered on The Circuit, the national defibrillator network utilised by ambulance services to locate the nearest device during emergencies. Each installation will include a fully automatic defibrillator, a heated external cabinet, a bleed control kit, and additional emergency response equipment.
Falkirk Council is investing £50,000 in the programme. Maintenance of the equipment will be supported by community partners, including the Forth Valley First Responder Group, which will regularly monitor the defibrillators' status across the council area.
The initial schools receiving the new equipment include Grangemouth High School, Bonnybridge Primary School, Bowhouse Primary School, Deanburn Primary School, Ladeside Primary School, Nethermains Primary School, Shieldhill Primary School, St Joseph's Primary School, St Mary's Primary School, and Whitecross Primary School.
