by
Robert Garment, Executive Editor | July 01, 2005
Mayor Greg Nickels accepted 10 HeartStart automated external defibrillators (AEDs) from Philips Medical Systems for use at Seattle's public swimming pools.
"This generous gift from Philips will help keep Seattle citizens safe, and will contribute toward our goal of fostering strong families and healthy communities," Nickels said. "Even though we hope we never have to use them, having them there will increase public confidence in the city's ability to keep people safe when they use our facilities, and to respond in emergencies."
"Seattle is a special city for us because it's where we design and produce our HeartStart AEDs," said Deborah DiSanzo, vice president and general manager for Philips Medical Systems. "We are very pleased to be working with Seattle Parks to protect the citizens of Seattle from sudden cardiac arrest while they are enjoying the great recreational facilities the city has to offer."
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Sudden cardiac arrest, a condition in which the heart's normal pumping action stops and the victim is not responsive and stops breathing , is one of the nation's leading causes of death.
Automated external defibrillators enable virtually anyone to use technology formerly available only to trained professionals. Philips designed the HeartStart FRx with clear voice instructions that talk the user through each step, and sense and adapt to the user's actions. HeartStart quickly analyzes whether a rhythm is shockable, and if so, delivers it to jolt the heart back to its normal rhythm.
HeartStart defibrillators can be safely used on infants, children, and adults, making them ideal for placement in public recreation areas. They run on four-year batteries and conduct daily, weekly and monthly self-tests to ensure they are ready when needed. The Parks' pool staff has been trained in their operation.
The city is beginning by making an AED available at each public pool and, over time, will buy AEDs for all Parks and Recreation facilities, including 25 community centers, four environmental learning centers, two boating centers, and the tennis center.
Under the agreement between Philips and the Seattle Parks Foundation, Philips will donate one AED for every two purchased on behalf of Seattle Parks. The value of each AED and accessories is $2,500.
