The Copper Shores Community Health Foundation has supplied several community organizations with automatic external defibrillators, better known as AEDs. Since 2022, the Foundation has distributed a number of defibrillators to departments and locations that may have a need for them.
With a goal of handing out 30 AEDs this round, Copper Shores has handed out 20 units to 10 organizations including the Arvon Township School, Aura Fire Department, Baraga Fire Department, Bay Ambulance, Calumet Theatre, Copper Harbor Downtown Development Authority, Copper Harbor Trails Club, Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College, Keweenaw County Sheriff’s Office, L’Anse Fire Department, and L’Anse Police Department. The other ten units not yet handed out are available to be requested by other nonprofits or municipalities.
An AED can save someone’s life if they have entered cardiac arrest, as it is one of the United States’ leading causes of death. Combined with citizens that are trained in its use, AEDs around the community can prove to be a beneficial safety feature for those who may find themselves in need of one in the time between the onset of cardiac arrest and the arrival of medical personnel.
President and CEO of Copper Shores, Kevin Store, says that “although AEDs should be as commonplace as fire extinguishers in public spaces, we know the cost of each unit often creates an affordability barrier and reduces the number of units made available. We hope this helps address some of that need. “
It is possible for the average citizen to be instructed in the use of an AED to save someone’s life. Classes are available at many locations on a regular basis and the general public is encouraged to attend one, it may save a life.
