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Safe Businesses
Automated External
Defibrillators (AEDs)
Sudden cardiac arrest is one of the leading causes of death in North America. In fact, sudden cardiac arrest is truly a public health crisis. Unlike other health problems of this magnitude, however, sudden cardiac arrest is treatable. The cure for most cases of sudden cardiac arrest is immediate treatment with a defibrillator, a device that shocks the heart out of a fatal rhythm, allowing a normal, healthy rhythm to resume.
Unfortunately, although science and industry have developed a safe and effective cure that works, few victims of sudden cardiac arrest have quick access to this treatment. Why? Because many communities have not yet developed strategies to ensure that a defibrillator reaches every victim of sudden cardiac arrest within five minutes of collapse.
It really doesn't matter who brings the defibrillator to the victim's side. The important thing is to make sure a working defibrillator is readily available and there is an action plan to ensure the device and trained rescuers reach the victim in time.
Local Businesses Ready to Respond With An AED
The Bettendorf Presbyterian Church completed a
comprehensive approach to consideration of an AED in
their church. Parrish Nurse, Sharon Pipe, attended the
Red Cross AED informational breakfast in December. After
learning more about the important role AEDs play in
saving lives in our community, she invited Health and
Safety Director, Ann Perdue, to a meeting of the church
council. A demonstration, questions, and interactive
discussion resulted in a hearty endorsement of the need
for an AED in the church. Sharon commented, “With the
number of church meetings, activities and other groups
in and out of our building, it seemed so important for
us to be prepared for a sudden cardiac arrest.”
ChemTreat, Inc. of Eldridge, Iowa, recently purchased a
Philips FR2 AED for the safety of their employees.
Regulatory Coordinator, Marc Gaskin stated, “The safety
of our employees is and always will be a top priority.
We have regulations and standards that have to be met;
however, we want to be proactive and go above the
minimum requirements.” Marc continued, “Our customers
require that we are a safe business and we must meet our
customer’s requirements. Training is vital in all
aspects of our business. Most importantly, being trained
in life saving skills is essential to our aggressiveness
in being a safe business.” For more information on AED’s,
a demonstration, or to purchase, please call Daniel
Martensen at (309)743-2166.
Columbus Schools Receive AED Gift
Columbus Community Schools’ superintendent Rich Bridenstine
finds his district a much safer environment, thanks to
the generosity of an anonymous donor. Seeing the need for AEDs at locations such as schools and knowing the budget challenges schools are facing, this
anonymous donor directed funds to the Columbus Schools to purchase an AED and provide training to district staff in CPR and AED use. The Red Cross has been active in facilitating purchases of AEDs at schools, businesses and other locations throughout the area.
Mr. Bridenstine was amazed at the generosity of this individual who had the vision to approach his school system with an offer that will benefit students, faculty and the entire community. The Lone Tree schools have also benefited from a similar donation for the same donor. Training is under way and the AED will stand ready at all upcoming school events, practices and activities on the school campus. This donation truly exemplifies the Red Cross belief that “together we can save a life.”
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