“We’re looking at automatic external defibrillators – they get your heart going again,” Commissioner Larry Brady said. “We’d station these throughout the county buildings to use until the EMS system arrives. Most buildings have them laying around, and they are a wonderful asset when minutes count.”
Brady says the commissioners are looking at purchasing at least four units: one each for the courthouse, annex building, Pleasant View Rest Home and county highway garage. There’s already a defibrillator in place at the Pulaski County Jail, and sheriff’s deputies also carry them in their vehicles.
Brady adds that the devices come with easy-to-understand instructions for use. He says the county maintenance supervisor would see that they are checked out annually to be sure they are in proper working order. It’s possible the presence of the defibrillators will save the county money on insurance premiums. EMS Director Nikki Lowry shared information about various models with the commissioners. They did not make any final decisions on a purchase but were generally supportive of obtaining the devices.
