Welcome to Richland AED
Richland County’s initiative for AED equipment, resources, and education
In collaboration with the Richland County Foundation, Richland Public Health is providing education, training, device assistance, digital resource support, and SCA incidence monitoring in Richland County.
The Initiative will provide free AED machines, supplies, training, and education to any Richland County youth-serving organization that hosts physical activities or sporting events.
To ensure sustainability, Richland Public Health will provide support at no cost, as well as free educational events and resources to all Richland County youth and parents. These resources will help prevent SCAs and improve knowledge and skills about AED machines, pediatric cardiovascular health, and pediatric sports health.
Richland Public Health, alongside the Richland County Foundation, envisions a future where all youth-serving organizations and residents in Richland County are equipped with necessary lifesaving equipment and the knowledge and confidence needed to intervene in the event of an emergency.
What is an SCA?
Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is a serious condition that causes the heart to suddenly stop beating. It can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time.
If you see Sudden Cardiac Arrest, you need to act fast!
What is an AED and why should I have one?
An AED, or automated external defibrillator, is a portable, battery-operated device that automatically diagnoses a life-threatening heart rhythm known as ventricular fibrillation (VF). VF results in sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), in which the heart stops pumping blood. The AED advises the operator to deliver an electrical shock, or defibrillation, the most definitive treatment for reversing ventricular fibrillation.
The sooner an electrical shock can be delivered to someone suffering from SCA, the greater the chance that person will survive. With simple voice and visual commands, AEDs are designed for ease of use for the layperson. AEDs are safe and will not shock anyone that’s not in this fatal heart rhythm.
AEDs in Richland County
Richland AED Partners
Other AED Locations
Need More Information?
Organizations
Youth-serving organizations are encouraged to apply for the AED program.
Parents
Parents are encouraged to speak with their children about the warning signs of Sudden Cardiac Arrest.
Kids
Learn what to watch for in case someone’s heart stops working all of a sudden.