Campaigners call for new cars to be fitted with defibrillators

The JumpStart campaign has welcomed confirmation that it will contribute to a DfT review into the safety equipment recommended for vehicles, describing it as an important opportunity to improve survival rates from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

The DfT is reviewing whether the list of recommended emergency equipment contained within the Highway Code should be strengthened. As part of the process, it will work with motoring organisations, Government bodies and other stakeholders to consider potential additions to the current guidance, which advises motorists to carry a first aid kit, warning triangle and high-visibility clothing.

JumpStart is urging the DfT to recommend the inclusion of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), viewing the review as an important stepping stone towards its wider campaign objective of making defibrillators standard equipment in all new vehicles.

The campaign argues that equipping vehicles with AEDs could significantly improve access to life-saving treatment for the more than 40,000 people who suffer an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest across the UK each year. Survival rates are highest when CPR and defibrillation are delivered within the first three to five minutes.

The review also follows changes introduced by the DVSA this year, with driving theory tests now including questions on CPR and the use of defibrillators. The campaign says improving public knowledge should now be matched by making the equipment itself more readily available.

JumpStart is proposing that AEDs carried in vehicles should be checked as part of the existing MOT process, ensuring devices remain operational through routine vehicle inspections.

Jon McLeod, speaking on behalf of the JumpStart campaign, said: “We welcome the Government’s commitment to reviewing how safety and emergency equipment in vehicles can save more lives, and we are pleased to be offering evidence and expertise as part of that process.

“Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest is one of the most time-critical medical emergencies, and survival depends on rapid CPR and defibrillation. Publicly accessible AEDs are often too far away or difficult to access quickly. Vehicles provide one of the most practical ways of bringing life-saving equipment closer to where emergencies happen.”

The campaign believes vehicles could act as “mini ambulances”, helping to improve the availability of defibrillators while easing pressure on emergency services. As part of its engagement with the Department for Transport, JumpStart will also explore interim measures, including the potential introduction of AEDs in grey fleet vehicles used for work purposes.

The DfT is expected to hold workshops and stakeholder meetings over the coming months before announcing the outcome of the review.