Body of News Release
Marin County, CA – This summer, the Emergency Medical Services division of the Marin County Health and Human Services (HHS) Department is organizing a public scavenger hunt to help community members locate automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in their neighborhood.
It's part of a countywide push to raise awareness about these lifesaving devices, which can help resuscitate individuals whose heart has suddenly stopped working, in the month leading up to HHS's free annual Sidewalk CPR training event in August.
When used within the first few minutes of a cardiac emergency, an AED can dramatically increase survival rates. Despite their importance, many people are unaware of where these life-saving devices are in their communities. Registering the devices is one way to help community members easily locate these lifesaving tools quickly.
“Knowing where your nearest AED is can make the difference between life and death,” said Chris Le Baudour, County of Marin EMS Administrator. “That's why we've partnered with local emergency services, community partners, and Pulse Point to organize a fun, interactive way for residents to become familiar with AEDs and map them for the community.”
Scavenger hunt details
While out on everyday activities in public locations residents should look for AED devices.
- When found, snap a photo and complete the “AED Scavenger Hunt” submission form.
- Submissions are accepted July 16 through August 16.
- There is no limit to the number of entries one can submit.
- EMS staff will review the submissions, and unregistered devices will be added to the network.
- Prizes are awarded to the top five individuals to find the most unregistered AED devices.
Why it Matters
- Sudden cardiac arrest is one of the leading causes of death in Marin.
- Immediate CPR and AED use can triple survival rates.
- Aims to encourage more businesses and public venues to install clearly marked AEDs.
- Bring Marin County closer to the 4-Minute Community model by mapping these life-saving devices.
“Raising awareness in a hands-on way empowers our residents,” Le Baudour said. “The more people who know how to find and use an AED, the safer our community becomes.”
Residents can learn how to operate the AED devices they locate during the annual Sidewalk CPR event held throughout Marin on August 16 from 10 AM to 2 PM. For more information, PulsePoint materials, and AED safety tips, visit the Marin HHS website.
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For disability accommodations, please phone (415) 473-6833 (voice), CA Relay 711, or e-mail Marin HHS at least five business days in advance of the event. The County will do its best to fulfill requests received with less than five business days’ notice. Copies of documents are available in alternative formats, upon request.