The community of Boston Bar is going to be a little safer, thanks to the installation of a new automated external defibrillator (AED) at the Canyon Lanes bowling alley.
AED units are used in emergency situations when someone experiences a cardiac arrest. Mounted on walls in visible locations, AEDs are designed to be operated by any member of the public while waiting for emergency responders to arrive.
“AEDs are computerized devices that diagnose abnormal heart rhythms,” said Chris Wilson, manager of electoral area emergency services for the Fraser Valley Regional District. “If needed, the unit will deliver an electric shock to the patient, and drastically improve their chances of surviving a cardiac arrest.”
The FVRD applied for Boston Bar’s AED under the Heart and Stroke Foundation’s Public Access to Defibrillation (PAD) program. The effort aims to donate approximately 450 AEDs over three years to public places throughout B.C.
“In rural communities such as Boston Bar, devices like an AED are extremely important,” said FVRD board chair Sharon Gaetz. “The PAD program is saving lives and the FVRD is truly grateful that Boston Bar was chosen to receive this lifesaving device for our residents to access in emergency situations.”
The FVRD applied to the B.C. PAD program back in November 2013 for AED placements at Canyon Lanes in Boston Bar and also at the Popkum Volunteer Fire Department. Both applications were approved.