Lee County is expanding lifesaving efforts by placing additional Automated Electronic Defibrillators (AEDs) in five parks and recreation locations.
The county will now have 258 AEDs across various sites, including parks, libraries, and administration offices. This expansion means 73 AEDs are specifically for parks and recreation facilities.
Lee County Emergency Medical Services responds to 20 to 30 cardiac-related calls at park locations each year. Quick intervention by the public can significantly increase survival rates from cardiac arrest.
The AEDs are housed in cabinets with Stop the Bleed equipment to manage life-threatening bleeding. Located near restrooms or structures, these cabinets use electric power to keep equipment charged and climate-controlled. Accessing a cabinet will automatically alert 9-1-1, ensuring a rapid response from the nearest ambulance.
The units are already installed at Buckingham Park, Lakes Park, and Three Oaks Park, with installations at Brooks Park and Rutenberg Park expected later this month.
Historically, AED use has been low due to bystanders’ lack of knowledge and confidence. The Avive AED aims to address these issues by being readily available at the scene of an emergency.