New AED Installation at Butlerville Building
Thanks to help from Harlan Township Advanced EMT Geoff Hultgren and the staff at Bright Acres Learning Academy, we are excited to announce the installation of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) at the Butlerville Building, a significant step towards improving the safety and emergency response capabilities for all our occupants and visitors.
What is an AED?
An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a portable electronic device designed to diagnose and treat life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias through defibrillation. This life-saving device helps restore a normal heart rhythm in cases of sudden cardiac arrest, making it easy to use for both medical professionals and laypersons with minimal training.
How an AED Works
In the event of a cardiac emergency, the AED is applied to the patient’s chest via adhesive electrode pads. The device assesses the heart’s rhythm and, if necessary, prompts the user to deliver a shock to restore a normal heartbeat. Audible instructions guide the process, and some models even provide visual cues.
The Importance of Early CPR
Early cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is vital in improving the chances of survival during sudden cardiac arrest. Performing CPR correctly can double or even triple the victim’s chance of survival by maintaining oxygenated blood flow to the brain and other vital organs until professional medical help can take over.
When to Perform CPR
CPR should be initiated immediately if a person is unresponsive and not breathing or only gasping. The procedure involves chest compressions and rescue breaths to simulate the heart's pumping action and provide oxygen to the lungs.
Steps of CPR
Check Responsiveness: Tap the victim and shout to see if they respond.
Call for Help: Dial emergency services (911) and request an AED if available.
Start Chest Compressions: Place the heel of one hand on the center of the victim's chest, place the other hand on top, and press down hard and fast at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
Provide Rescue Breaths: After 30 compressions, give 2 breaths by tilting the victim's head back, lifting the chin, pinching the nose, and breathing into their mouth.
Continue CPR: Alternate between 30 compressions and 2 breaths until emergency responders arrive or the victim shows signs of life.
Benefits of Having an AED at the Butlerville Building
Installing an AED at the Butlerville Building offers several key benefits:
Increased Survival Rates
AEDs are crucial in increasing survival rates for individuals experiencing cardiac arrest. Using an AED within the first few minutes can increase the survival rate by up to 70%, ensuring rapid defibrillation and significantly improving outcomes.
Empowering Building Occupants
Access to an AED empowers occupants and visitors to take swift action during a cardiac emergency. With proper training, individuals can use the AED confidently, bridging the gap until professional medical assistance arrives.
Enhanced Community Safety
Beyond the building, the presence of an AED contributes to overall community safety. In a nearby cardiac emergency, the AED can be quickly brought to the scene, potentially saving lives outside the building’s confines.
Conclusion
The installation of an AED at the Butlerville Building marks a significant advancement in our safety and emergency preparedness efforts. Understanding how an AED works and the importance of early CPR is essential for all occupants and visitors, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to respond effectively during a cardiac emergency. This initiative reflects our broader commitment to health and safety, ensuring life-saving measures are always within reach. If you are interested in learning CPR, please visit our website, harlantwp.us and fill out the “contact us form.”