City to purchase AEDs for City Hall and Civic Works Department

By Kyra Hoggan

Castlegar city council, at its regular meeting Monday evening (Nov. 16), unanimously approved the purchase of two AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) for roughly $5,500.

City utilities manager Jesse Reel, in his report to council, recommended the move, as well as changes to training and Occupation Health and Safety guidelines and procedures to facilitate the new equipment.

Accessible AED devices have proven to significantly increase the chance of survival of persons who have experienced sudden cardiac arrest, provided that AEDs are properly equipped, located, maintained and used,” Reel said. “The City of Castlegar strives to provide a safe and healthy work environment for all employees.”

He said the Castlegar Fire Department currently uses the ZOLL brand of defibrillators, so it makes sense to remain consistent and go with that brand for other city uses as well.