Essex Windsor EMS wants to make sure organizers of big events have access to a life-saving AED.
If you're holding a fundraising golf tournament, a charity dinner, a wedding or even a family reunion, EMS hopes you'll consider applying to borrow an AED. It could save a life if anyone suffers cardiac arrest.
"If you apply a defibrillator to someone's chest in the first 60 seconds of a cardiac arrest, their chances of surviving increase by 90 per cent," said Dave Thibodeau of Essex Windsor EMS. "With every minute that passes after that, the chances decrease by ten per cent."
The devices are now available for temporary use at short-term, one-off events or gatherings. Even those without medical training can use them.
There are more than 2,000 AEDs readily available at any time throughout Essex County, but particularly at outdoor events, people may not be aware of their location. The loaner AEDs are stored in backpacks for portability and come with instructions, a naloxone kit, and other first-aid necessities.
There's no fee for borrowing an AED, but EMS have one condition, that someone at the gathering is credentialed in First Aid or CPR training. At least one person must also attend a two-hour education session.
Applications must be filed at least five business days ahead of the event.