In 2002 the Department of Emergency Services through the national Public Access Defibrillation (PAD) program, stationed over 160 AEDs throughout county parks, office buildings, police vehicles and other county owned facilities. The EMS division manages the county's Public Access Defibrillation (PAD) Program. This program involves recruitment, training and re-certification of county employees. Training includes proficiency in Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and in using an automated external defibrillator (AED).
What is an AED?
The automated external defibrillator (AED) is a computerized medical device that is used by trained personnel to save a life. The AED can recognize a life threatening cardiac rhythm and if needed deliver a shock to the heart in an attempt to stimulate a normal heart rhythm.
Why do we train county employees in CPR/AED?
Early recognition and CPR is a critical part of providing lifesaving aid to people suffering sudden cardiac arrest. An employee trained in CPR and in the use of an AED can recognize the signs of sudden cardiac arrest and initiate immediate care prior to the arrival of medical personnel. The training provided ensures that employees are familiar with the signs and symptoms of sudden cardiac arrest, know how to get assistance and can provide immediate assistance.
Are there AED devices in all County buildings?
Since the inception of the PAD program DES has provided CPR/AED training to over 1,200 county employees and coordinated the placement of 170 AED units. Devices are located throughout 61 county buildings and in many first response vehicles.