Jim Fair
There are two simple steps: opening the unit and applying two color-coded electrode pads that include illustrations showing exactly where to place each pad. The unit then takes over and determines if the victim’s heart needs a shock.
The AEDs are mounted inside security cabinets in city facilities and all are compatible with EMS units in Greenville and Spartanburg counties. Once emergency personnel arrive, they can continue using the AED unit or plug the paddles into their unit.
The city reportedly purchased the AEDs directly from manufacturer Physio-Control of Redmond, Wash., at a cost of $1,676.50 per unit. In addition to city hall, units will be mounted in the police department, municipal court, the operations center home to the Parks and Recreation and Public Services departments, Victor Gym, Needmore Recreation Center, Cannon Centre, and the Tryon Recreation Center.
The city has five mobile units for use on-site during athletic practices and games, events at the Cannon Centre and festivals at City Park.
Sudden cardiac arrest is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. The American Red Cross estimates that more than 350,000 people will suffer from sudden cardiac arrest this year, noting that an AED is the only effective treatment for restoring a regular heart rhythm. Each minute defibrillation is delayed, the chance of survival is reduced by approximately 10 percent.
Ann Cunningham, director of parks and recreation, introduced the AEDs to City Council and Capt. Josh Holzheimer, training officer, of the Greer Fire Department demonstrated the ease of use.
“It does everything. It’s really made for a lay person,” Holzheimer said.
There are two simple steps: opening the unit and applying two color-coded electrode pads that include illustrations showing exactly where to place each pad. The unit then takes over and determines if the victim’s heart needs a shock. It automatically issues a voice warning to responders and issues the shock when necessary.
"I’m super excited about this, especially from the Fire Department’s side," said Holzheimer. "We have a great response time in the city and get (to a scene) within four or five minutes. However, national statistics tell us that’s not quick enough. Having these units in place allows a victim to be shocked even quicker and making the chance of survival higher.”
"Ensuring the safety and security of our patrons and our staff is a priority when planning any event or activity, or as well as managing any of our facilities and parks,” said Cunningham.
Citizens can also locate AEDs by downloading an app that locates a registry of AEDs for use during emergencies. Greer is planning to add its AEDs to the registry.