The 18^th defibrillator has been installed in the city as part of Australian Red Cross Dubbo’s campaign to have automated external defibrillators no more than two minutes apart in high traffic areas.

Frank Brennan said the defibrillator could make a big difference to those who may need it.

“We had an employee about four years ago who collapsed and consequently died. Having this will create confidence for the staff,” he said.

“Anyone can have a heart attack but we do get quite a few elderly people in here.”

Another defibrillator will be installed at the Lillimur Op Shop.

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Op Shop supervisor Robyn Fisher said the community had been supportive of the store in the past and donating the money for the defibrillator was their way of giving something back.

A unit will also soon be installed at the Dubbo Post Office.

Along with Australia Post there are orders for AED units from the Railway Hotel Social Club  to go at the Buncha), a Kintyre Estate defibrillator which has been ordered by the residents, and the Uniting Church which has donated a unit.

The units are all expected to be installed by the end of July.

Dubbo Red Cross first aid trainer George Chapman said he was amazed at the support the campaign had generated.

Mr Chapman said the units are expected to save up to two people per week. Every minute someone having a cardiac arrest doesn’t receive treatment their chance of survival dropped by seven per cent, he said.

Businesses which contain the AED will have a sticker on the window indicating its location in case it is required.

The Rotary Club of Dubbo have launched an appeal for donations towards the installation of more AED units.

Donations to the appeal can be made at the Regional Australia Bank or by direct deposit using BSB number 932 000 and account number 100 380 639. The donor’s name should be used as a reference.