AED in the News

Hockey Player's Life Saved by Public Access Defibrillator

January 18, 2008, Norfolk County, ON

On Friday evening (January 18, 2008) at approximately 9 pm, a man collapsed while playing hockey in the Langton arena, he did not have any vital signs. CPR (cardio pulmonary resuscitation) was initiated immediately by two off duty, Norfolk County fire fighters also playing in the game. The Public Access Defibrillator installed at the arena was used and with one “shock”, the man’s heart regained a sustainable rhythm. He was then transported to Tillsonburg Hospital by Norfolk County Paramedics.

The installation of Public Access Defibrillators (PAD) was approved by Norfolk County Council in February 2007. They have been installed in fifteen “high risk” locations after donations from the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario, local businesses and service groups. Manager of Community Services, Bill Hett, spearheaded the initiative. “It’s reassuring to know the defibrillators are there if needed and in this case used with success. They can be used by anyone. Thanks to all organizations that donated toward this project!”

The placement of the AED unit at the Langton arena was made possible by the Heart&Stroke Restart a Heart, a Life program and the Heart&Stroke Chase McEachern Tribute Fund.