Midhurst/May 26, 2022 – Recognizing the need for automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to be placed in community facilities across Simcoe County, in 2005, County of Simcoe Paramedic Services launched the Public Access Defibrillation (PAD) Program. To date, the program has helped to place and maintain more than 940 AEDs in public places, schools and private businesses across the region.
The deployment of these AEDs, combined with the quick administration of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) by community members, has directly resulted in 28 lives saved since the program’s inception.
Understanding the vital role of AEDs during cardiac emergencies, Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation recently awarded the County of Simcoe Paramedic Services PAD Program with a $26,949 grant to purchase 16 new AEDs. These new AEDs will replace older AEDs within the community, ensuring that the proper equipment is ready and able to be deployed when needed.
“We are thankful to Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation of Canada and Firehouse Subs locations in Barrie for providing us with this invaluable funding,” said Warden George Cornell. “In an emergency, every second counts. The added benefit of having the very best lifesaving equipment accessible to the public in key locations throughout our communities can help save lives.”
These new AEDs will be placed in previously identified locations throughout the summer months. For more information on our Public Access Defibrillation Program or to register your existing AED with 9-1-1, visit our website.
About Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation of Canada
The Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation of Canada has awarded 279 grants to public safety organizations since 2015. This grant is one of 11 Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation of Canada awarded to public safety organizations during the most recent grant cycle. The 11 grants will provide critical lifesaving equipment valued at more than $279,000 combined across Ontario.
To donate and learn more, visit any Firehouse Subs restaurant or online at CanadaHelps.org.
About the County of Simcoe
The County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe.ca.
CONTACTS
Jen Straw
Public Relations Consultant
County of Simcoe, Service Simcoe Department
705-790-5979 (mobile)
Jennifer.Straw@simcoe.ca
Collin Matanowitsch
Manager, Public Relations
County of Simcoe, Service Simcoe Department
705-734-8386 (mobile)
Collin.Matanowitsch@simcoe.ca