On Wednesday, December 17, Acadian Ambulance donated six automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to the City of Crowley for use throughout the community. Acadian Community Relations Supervisor Billy Vincent presented the donated AEDs to Crowley Mayor Chad Monceaux.
In addition to the donation, Acadian Ambulance provided Heartsaver CPR and AED training to 40 City of Crowley employees.
Vincent said, “We are honored to donate these AEDs to the City of Crowley. Knowing the proper steps to CPR and how to use an AED can be the difference between life and death, so training is extremely important.”
According to the American Red Cross, survival chances decrease by 10% for every minute that immediate CPR and use of an AED is delayed.
If encountering someone experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, it’s important to call 911 before beginning CPR or using an AED.
To use an AED:
- Turn the device on and follow the prompts.
- Open the person’s shirt and wipe their skin dry.
- Attach the AED pads to the person and plug in the connector.
- Push the “analyze” button and allow the AED to analyze the person’s heart rhythm.
- If the AED recommends delivering a shock to the person, make sure that no one is touching the person — and tell everyone to “stand clear.”
- Once clear, press the “shock” button. Begin CPR after delivering the shock.
- If no shock is advised, begin CPR right away.
- Perform two minutes of CPR and continue to follow the AED’s prompts. If there are obvious signs of life, discontinue CPR and monitor breathing for any changes in condition.
In the event of an emergency, call 911 to be connected with Acadian Ambulance dispatchers.
