By training volunteers, purchasing an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and tying into the 911 system, neighbors can become first responders to rescue fellow neighbors. Each responder would have ReadyAlert paging service.
When a cardiac arrest occurs, a call is made to 911. Once the 911 operator determines the nature of the emergency to be a cardiac arrest, the system would dispatch the AED group (in addition to medical personnel) via ReadyAlert.
While one or more responders would go immediately to the home, others would go to the AED unit and take it where needed. The AED is stored in a locked cabinet located in the neighborhood and all responders have keys. Currently, there are over 195 AED groups in The Villages community.
For any neighborhoods wanting to participate in the AED program, contact Lieutenant/Emergency Resource Specialist Lt. John Longacre by phone at 352-205-8280 or by email at john.longacre@districtgov.org.