Dupage Policy Journal

NAPERVILLE, Ill. — A new initiative aims to increase the number of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in local businesses and boost community awareness about the life-saving capabilities of these devices. Recognized at Naperville City Council on Jan. 16, the Naperville Fire Department, the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce (NACC), the Naperville Citizens Appreciate Public Safety (CAPS) organization, and the Rotary Club of Naperville have joined together to create a special program called “Make Naperville a Cardiac Conscious Community.”

Cardiac emergencies are unpredictable, and the immediate availability of an AED can be a life-saving factor. The Naperville Fire Department has been actively monitoring AEDs around the city, mainly in public buildings. Addressing this need, the NACC, CAPS, and Rotary have come together for this extensive public information campaign.

"The absence of AEDs in private businesses is concerning," said Naperville Fire Department Chief Mark Puknaitis. "By increasing access to AEDs and educating people on their use, we can greatly improve our community's emergency response capabilities and potentially save lives. AEDs are essential for saving lives and making them more accessible and familiar to our community is our goal."

This limited-time promotion gives businesses the chance to purchase AEDs for $500 (compared to $2,000 retail); including complimentary on-site training provided by the Naperville Fire Department. The training is essential to preparing staff members to respond confidently and effectively in emergency situations.

"This is an incredible chance for local businesses to improve their emergency preparedness at a great discount," said Kaylin Risvold, President, and CEO of the NACC. "By increasing the number of AEDs and training more people in their use, we're making our community safer. This initiative is about more than just supplying AEDs; it’s about ensuring that people know where they are and how simple they are to use. Together, we're committed to safety and taking care of each other."

Naperville businesses and organizations are encouraged to seize this opportunity within the month of February, as this program is limited to the first 20 registrants. Show your dedication to the safety and well-being of the community by contacting NFDPublicEducation@naperville.il.us.

Original source can be found here.