What’s an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)? You might not be thinking of an AED next time you run up the Dune Climb or walk a beach, but you will be happy to know that there are trained people with the right equipment nearby if you need one!
An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a portable device that checks the heart rhythm and can send an electric shock to the heart to try to restore a normal rhythm. AEDs are used to treat sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). SCA is a condition in which the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating. When this happens, blood stops flowing to the brain and other vital organs.
SCA usually causes death if it’s not treated within minutes. In fact, each minute of SCA leads to a 10 percent reduction in survival. Using an AED on a person who is having SCA may save the person’s life.
We had a situation at the Dune Climb last June, where a visitor had a SCA after climbing up the Dunes. Emergency personnel reacted quickly, applied an AED and stabilized him before transporting him to the hospital where he recovered. Fast action and availability of an AED saved his life.
Consumers Energy Foundation presents a grant to purchase AEDs
The Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes applied for a grant from the Consumers Energy Foundation to purchase new AEDs for high use buildings and patrol vehicles. We were fortunate to receive a grant of $4,000 to purchase some of these devices. Most of these new devices are in service now!
We still need your help to raise about $3,000 to purchase the remainder of the AEDs for our first responders. We would like to have an AED in each of the Ranger patrol cars. If you can help, please make a donation. You can make your donation on our web site or by mailing a check to the Friends. See donation details on our web site.