Imagine having the power to save lives right in your own neighbourhood. Establishing a Public Access to Defibrillation Program (PAD) can turn this vision into reality. But where to begin? This article provides a roadmap to guide you through the suggested steps, showcasing how your community can become a leader in safety and preparedness.
Assemble Your Dream Team
Every great initiative starts with a passionate and dedicated group of individuals. For your Public Access to Defibrillation Program, round up a dynamic team of 5 to 7 people. This dream team should include the following:
- Task Force Coordinator: The guiding force that ensures the program stays on course.
- Medical Director: A healthcare professional who can provide vital expertise and guidance.
- Device Coordinator: The person responsible for the AED logistics and maintenance.
- CPR/AED Educator: The heart of the program, who will train your community in lifesaving techniques. If you are a Training Partner, the educator could be a First Aid Instructor from your team. If you are not, remember that you can contact any of our Training Partners nationwide to form an alliance.
- City/Town Official: A local government advocate supporting your cause.
- Resource People: Knowledgeable individuals who can provide insights and connections.
- School Administrator: A link to educational institutions and potential AED locations.
Assess the Need
Before you begin conduct a comprehensive needs assessment. Identify priority locations within your community that require AEDs, determine who needs training, and requirements to maintain these lifesaving machines.
Educate and Mobilize
Raise awareness and garner support within your community. Host informative sessions, engage with local media, and harness social media's power to highlight your program's pressing needs.
Find some resources you can share here:
- First Aid App: Download and share the NEW Red Cross First Aid app for an engaging and interactive way to learn and refresh your CPR skills.
- Share inspiring stories from the Red Cross Blog:
- Share First Aid tips with your community from the Red Cross.
Research and Select Devices
In your search to save lives, thorough research is vital. Investigate and choose the AED devices that best suit your community's needs. You want to make sure you're investing in the most reliable equipment.
Secure Funding
Funding is often the cornerstone of such programs. Look to a variety of sources, including:
- Civic organizations eager to contribute to community well-being.
- Corporate organizations with a heart for philanthropy.
- Grants from government bodies and other private foundations that prioritize public health.
- Community fundraisers to unite your residents in support of this lifesaving endeavour.
Craft Your Plan of Action
A well-structured response and training plan ensures a seamless launch and operation. Define roles and responsibilities, establish protocols, and set timelines to ensure the program's success.
Train the Heroes
Your community is full of potential lifesavers. As a next step, create a list of designated community members who will be trained to use the AED and enroll them in a
Canadian Red Cross CPR/AED course. Locate a
training course near your community as our Training Partners conduct programs across the country, and you can find one near you.
Install and Maintain Equipment
With devices in hand and a trained brigade, it's time to install the AEDs in accessible locations strategically. Regular maintenance is vital to ensure they are always ready to act.
Your community has the power to become a leader in health and safety, where lives are protected, and heroes are born. So, gather your task force, and set the wheels in motion for a Public Access to Defibrillation Program that can change lives and make your neighbourhood safer and stronger.