[tkret]

A tragic scene at Lake Sumter Landing Town Square last night reinforced my belief that AED (automated external defibrillator) machines should be placed in both Town Squares and recreation facilities. One of our Villages neighbors (or a guest) suffered, what appeared to be, a heart attack. The EMS response was fantastic and they arrived within 5 minutes of being called.

AED machines are life-savers and VERY easy to use. An AED is applied outside the body. It automatically analyzes the patient’s heart rhythm and advises the rescuer whether or not a shock is needed to restore a normal heart beat. If the patient’s heart resumes beating normally, the heart has been defibrillated.

The American Red Cross offers a class on using AED and volunteers throughout The Villages could take the course, and be certified. In my previous active-adult community, the developer provided the machines and paid for volunteers to take the one-day class. We had them placed at the tennis courts, softball field, and Clubhouse, and they were used on occasion with success. Florida's Good Samaritan Act 768.13 guarantees immunity from civil liability. (too bad that this even HAS to be mentioned)

You may wish to consider this when you fill out your 2009 Resident Survey.

p.s. Although the response by the EMS was impressive and their attention to the gentleman was extensive, I have not learned about his condition. After many minutes of life saving techniques, they elected to transport him from the area.