Sudden cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, at any time, and is among the leading causes of death in the United States. According to the American Heart Association, an AED, or automated external defibrillator, is used to help those experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. It’s a sophisticated, yet easy-to-use, medical device that can analyze the heart’s rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an electrical shock, or defibrillation, to help the heart re-establish an effective rhythm. When an AED is present, a life can be saved.
There are 16 AEDs on Seabrook Island that can be found at the following locations:
Seabrook Island Town Hall
Front Hall
Beach Vehicle
SIPOA Office Building
Reception Area
SIPOA Security
SIPOA Vehicles
Lake House
Meeting Room Hallway
Lobby
Office Hallway
Tennis Courts
Assistant Pro Office
Pelican’s Nest, Back Kitchen Hallway
Camp St. Christopher
Welcome Center
Suzanna’s House, Main Hall
Island House
First Floor
Beach Club
Pelican’s Nest, Back Kitchen Hallway
Engineering
Main Office Hallway (Garden Area)
Oyster Catcher Community Center
Front Porch
Non-medical personnel such as police, fire service personnel, flight attendants, security guards and other lay rescuers who have been trained in CPR can use AEDs. Although formal training in the use of an AED is not required, it is recommended to help the rescuer increase their comfort and level of confidence. However, AEDs are intended for use by the general public. Information about using CPR and an AED when a sudden cardiac arrest occurs is available through the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association. The first step is to call 9-1-1.
AEDs here on Seabrook use audible voice prompts to guide the user through the process. An individual using an AED in a “good faith effort” attempt to save the life of a cardiac arrest victim will be covered by the “good Samaritan” statute.
–Tidelines Editors
