Knowing AED locations in CL can save lives

There are more than 10 AEDs at various locations in Canyon Lake. Do you know where they’re located and how to use them?

Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) can help save lives during a sudden cardiac arrest, a leading cause of death in the United States. According to the American Red Cross, approximately 350,000 people will suffer a cardiac arrest this year. Currently, the only way to restore a regular heart rhythm during cardiac arrest is to use an AED.

An AED is a lightweight, portable device that delivers an electric shock through the chest to the heart. The shock can potentially stop an irregular heartbeat and allow a normal rhythm to resume following a sudden cardiac arrest. Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the heart malfunctions and stops beating unexpectedly. If not treated within minutes, it can quickly lead to death.

AEDs are intended for use by the general public. With simple audio and visual commands, AEDs are designed to be easy to use for the layperson.

How does an AED work? A built-in computer checks a victim’s heart rhythm through adhesive electrodes. The computer calculates whether defibrillation is needed. If it is, a recorded voice prompts the rescuer to press the shock button on the AED. This shock momentarily stuns the heart and stops all activity. It gives the heart the chance to resume beating effectively. Audible prompts guide the user through the process.

There are 10 AEDs located within the Canyon Lake community. Knowing where they’re located and how to use them could save a life.

AEDs are in the following locations:

1. POA Building
2. Country Club
3. Golf Pro Shop
4. Happy Camp
5. Pool
6. Lodge
7. Senior Center
8. Blue Bird Hall
9. East Port Activities Building
10. East Gate Guard Shack

Additionally, all the city’s vehicles and both of the city’s boats are equipped with portable AEDs.

Members of the Canyon Lake Emergency Preparedness Committee offer free AED and hands-on CPR classes for clubs and individual groups of six or more people. For more information about classes, contact Canyon Lake Emergency Preparedness Committee President Larry Greene at 951-244-7733.

The American Red Cross has created the following step-by-step guide to be used when caring for a non-breathing adult or child aged eight or older who weighs more than 55 pounds:

After checking the scene and ensuring that the person needs help, ask a bystander to call 911 for help, then:

1. Turn on the AED and follow the visual and/or audio prompts.
2. Open the person’s shirt and wipe his or her bare chest dry. If the person is wearing any medication patches, you should use a gloved (if possible) hand to remove the patches before wiping the person’s chest.
3. Attach the AED pads, and plug in the connector (if necessary).
4. Make sure no one, including you, is touching the person. Tell everyone to “stand clear.”
5. Push the “analyze” button (if necessary) and allow the AED to analyze the person’s heart rhythm.
6. If the AED recommends that you deliver a shock to the person, make sure that no one, including you, is touching the person – and tell everyone to “stand clear.” Once clear, press the “shock” button.
7. Begin CPR after delivering the shock. Or, if no shock is advised, begin CPR. Perform 2 minutes (about 5 cycles) of CPR and continue to follow the AED’s prompts. If you notice obvious signs of life, discontinue CPR and monitor breathing for any changes in condition.