Every second counts: Save A Life team run CPR & AED training at Mijas EL Golf restaurant

In a major boost to local emergency preparedness, Save A Life has funded a hands-on CPR and defibrillator training session this week for staff at Restaurant El Golf and members of the surrounding community.

The session, held at the popular venue in the Mijas Golf area, where Save A Life recently installed an AED defibrillator, equipped participants with the vital skills to respond to sudden cardiac arrest.

Gerry Hannam of Save A Life emphasised the importance of the training:

“A cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, at any time, in any place, regardless of age and health. Take a moment to familiarise yourself with the location of your nearest defibrillator – it could help save a life.”

The session comes shortly after Save A Life installed its 12th publicly accessible Automated External Defibrillator (AED) at the restaurant in May, following a successful community fundraiser there. The device is now mounted for 24/7 public access, providing a crucial safety net for diners, staff, golfers, and residents in the area.

Building a safer community

Save A Life has been steadily expanding its network of AEDs across Mijas Costa, Calahonda, La Cala and surrounding areas through grassroots fundraising events, including charity lunches, music nights, markets and golf days. The charity works closely with local businesses and residents to identify high-traffic locations where rapid access to defibrillation can make the difference between life and death.

Training sessions like the one at Restaurant El Golf complement the hardware installations by making sure more people know how to use the equipment confidently together with performing CPR.

Restaurant El Golf staff and local participants learned practical techniques on mannequins, including chest compressions, rescue breaths (where appropriate), and how to operate an AED safely and effectively, although the latter is made simple by a recorded voice giving instructions on its use.

Every second counts

Medical experts consistently highlight that immediate CPR combined with defibrillation within the first few minutes of cardiac arrest can dramatically increase survival rates. Publicly accessible AEDs, paired with trained responders, are transforming emergency outcomes in communities across the Costa del Sol.

Save A Life encourages everyone to note the location of their nearest defibrillator, whether at a restaurant, shop, community centre or sports facility, and to consider attending future training sessions.

For updates on upcoming events, installed AED locations, or ways to support the charity (including donations or hosting a fundraiser), follow Save A Life on Facebook at @SaveALifeSpain.

This latest training initiative reinforces the charity’s mission to make the Mijas area increasingly “cardioprotected” – one life-saving step at a time.