Shaler Township Brings Lifesaving AEDs to Community Parks
These state-of-the-art AEDs, manufactured by Avive, are equipped with the latest notification and tracking technology and will automatically alert Allegheny County 911 when activated, including the specific device location. This innovation shortens EMS response times and ensures patients receive critical care faster, this is the first program of its kind in the region.
Each AED will be housed in a clearly marked, alarmed cabinet, with signage throughout the parks. Cabinets will also soon contain Narcan for opioid emergencies, and Stop the Bleed kits will be added to further strengthen community preparedness. Training classes will be held at every park with an AED in late Spring and early Summer. They will be provided at no cost to all attendees.
“With these devices, help will be just minutes away—often less than four minutes—meeting the national standard for AED response,” said Judy Kording, Shaler Township Manager. “This initiative reflects our commitment to making our parks safer.” These AEDs will also all be in close proximity to neighborhoods and their residents, further increasing their potential use to help save a life.
“Partnerships like this save lives,” added Eric Schmidt, EMS Chief, Shaler Hampton EMS. “By connecting AEDs directly to Allegheny County 911, we are ensuring every second counts in an emergency. These devices are also available to the community who live in close proximity to the parks, as they are true public access.”
Shaler Township and Shaler Hampton EMS encourage all residents to familiarize themselves with AED locations.