AFTER Augusta was recently granted with defibrillators, Margaret River has now been given nine by St John Ambulance.
The potentially life-saving devices have been placed with trained staff at Gnarabar, Prevelly Caravan Park, Witchy Gull Service Station, Darnells Store in Rosabrook, Gracies Town Store, Margaret River Hotel and Lake Cave.
There are also two in Margaret River police cars.
Ambulance volunteer Betty Dyer said the defibrillators are on the first responder program run through Perth and can be called on at any time there is a life-threatening situation.
"They can hopefully restart a heart," she said.
"If you've pulled someone from the water [who was drowning, for example], if you use a defibrillator within 10 minutes, they have a better chance of survival."
Fellow volunteer Jodie Blackman explained it might take the ambulance five to 20 minutes to arrive, so nearby defibrillators can greatly assist in the meantime.
The one placed in Witchcliffe has a nice story attached as it was generously funded by a former resident, the late Mr Kent Le Grand.
"Kent was a glass blower for 25 years," Ms Dyer said.
"We helped him a few times."
She said Mr Le Grand was once injured in a car accident and had lost his right arm.
He was grateful for the Ambulance's help after the accident and later donated money to the organisation, which has been put towards the defibrillator.
"We've actually put a plaque on there for him," Ms Dyer said.
As well as the defibrillators from the ambulance, there are some bought and managed by Margaret River and Cowaramup Lions Clubs and some with the Bush Fire Brigades funded by FESA.
Margaret River sub centre will service the defibrillators when needed.
Any training on use will be taken on by trainers in the ambulance.
For information, contact the Margaret River St John centre on 9757 3333.
