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 a number 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 (3)
Lake House
Meeting Room Hallway
Lobby
Office Hallway
Oyster Catcher Community Center
Front Porch
Side Porch by Rest Rooms
Engineering
Main Office Hallway (Garden Area)
Tennis Courts
Assistant Pro Office
Island House
First Floor
Beach Club
Pelican’s Nest, Back Kitchen Hallway
Towel Building
Camp St. Christopher
Welcome Center
Suzanna’s House, Main Hall
Golf Courses
In late 2020, five new AEDs were set in place at the restrooms on each of the golf courses. On Crooked Oaks Course, they are located at holes 4, 10 and 14. On Ocean Winds Course, they are located at holes 4 and 14.
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
–Tidelines Editors