Madison Reporter

The City of Madison Fire Department has introduced a new program to make Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) more accessible to the public. This initiative allows individuals to reserve an AED for events such as sporting activities, family gatherings, or picnics where access might be limited.

These Avive AEDs are lightweight, compact, and user-friendly. The launch coincides with National CPR and AED Awareness Week, which runs from June 1 through 7, 2025.

AEDs play a crucial role alongside hands-only CPR in aiding individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. An AED assesses whether a heart is in a shockable rhythm and delivers a necessary shock if required. Witnesses of cardiac arrest should call 911 and begin hands-only CPR by pressing hard and fast on the center of the patient's chest until help arrives.

While CPR is ongoing, another person can activate the AED, which provides simple instructions. The devices offered by the Madison Fire Department include features for child patients under eight years old and Spanish-language support.

To reserve an AED from the department, contact their administrative offices at 608-266-4420 or fire@cityofmadison.com. Reservations require specifying dates needed, with returns expected within three days post-event.

The department emphasizes educating people about responding to cardiac arrests to improve survival rates locally. A demonstration involving Bucky Badger and Coach Mark Johnson showcases hands-only CPR techniques.

For practical experience, attend the community class on June 25 at Fire Station 13. Additionally, downloading the PulsePoint app alerts users when nearby CPR assistance is needed and shows locations of nearby AEDs.

As of June 4, ten individuals in Madison have survived cardiac arrests with full neurological recovery this year alone. Collaboration between citizens and emergency responders helps maintain Dane County's leadership in survival rates for such incidents.