Machines that automatically treat cardiac arrest or arrhythmia have been placed around Valletta for by-standers to use during emergencies.

Eight automated external defibrillators (AEDs) were placed around the capital in areas such as the bus terminals, to be used by people seeking to help those who have cardiac arrest.

Use of the machine is self-explanatory, and instructions are available for while it is being used, Parliamentary Secretary for Valletta 2018 Deo Debattista said.

The machine also rings an alarm as soon as it is opened, Malta Heart Foundation chair Samuel Attard added, noting those who suffer from cardiac arrest or arrhythmia would often be accompanied by others.

Around 200 people collapse every year from cardiac arrest and need emergency assistance, Malta Resuscitation Council chair Simon Attard Montalto said, adding that only six per cent of those survive.

Read: Almost 40% of deaths are heart-related

There were around 600 AEDs installed across Malta, but many of them are in supermarkets and not out on the streets, he said.

Over a third of those who suffer from cardiac arrest die, Health Minister Chris Fearne noted, adding these machines could help save lives during crucial moments.

The initiative will start off in Valletta and there are plans to roll them out to other towns soon, he said, with an awareness campaign also launching to educate people on the machine.