Defibrillator saves life of Leitrim man after he was electrocuted

A man’s life was saved in Cloone last week after a member of the public acted quickly to retrieve a community defibrillator following a serious electrocution incident.

The incident occurred on Friday, February 6, when a man came into contact with live electrical cables when putting up lights at a house and collapsed at the scene. Emergency services were alerted immediately, and while waiting for their arrival, a local person ran to get the nearest defibrillator.

The device was brought to the scene and used to assist the casualty in the critical moments before paramedics arrived. It is understood that the prompt use of the defibrillator played a vital role in keeping the man alive. He was later taken to hospital for specialist treatment. His current condition has been described as stable and he is on the mend.

The defibrillator used is part of the Cloone Community Defibrillator Scheme, which is supported by a group of 16 trained local volunteers. The availability of the device and the public’s awareness of its location proved crucial.

Local residents have praised the quick-thinking individual who ran to get it and described their actions as “life-saving.” The incident has also highlighted the importance of community defibrillators in rural areas, where emergency response times can be longer.

The Cloone Defibrillator Group said the situation demonstrates how vital it is for members of the public to know where defibrillators are located and how to use them.

“Having access to a defibrillator and the confidence to use it can make the difference between life and death."

The Cloone Defibrillator Group continues to promote CPR and defibrillator awareness locally and encourages people to familiarise themselves with emergency equipment in their area. Anyone interested in learning more about the group or supporting its work can contact them by email.

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