The Benicia Fire Department in partnership with Benicia Parks & Community Services - Recreation has amped up safety at the Benicia Community Park with the installation of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) device, ready for public access in cases of cardiac arrest emergencies. Located inside a locked yellow box on the wall of the snack shack, the AED is part of a safety initiative aimed at establishing Benicia as a "HeartSafe Community."

In a recent Facebook post by the Benicia Fire Department, officials explained that anyone needing to utilize the device should first call 911, wherein dispatchers will provide the code to unlock the AED. Special recognition was given to Benicia residents Lionel Largaespada, and Pam Dodson for the AED's housing, and a shoutout to the Public Works Department for handling the installation.

These devices are critical in emergency scenarios where time is of the essence. In the event of a cardiac episode, prompt administration of CPR combined with the use of an AED can significantly increase the chances of survival. A staggering 31% boost in survival rates is noted when victims receive immediate help from bystanders equipped with CPR and AED interventions, according to the American Heart Association.

In addition to providing the lifesaving equipment, the Benicia Fire Department is set to offer an American Heart Association CPR & AED course on February 20, 2024. This training session, running from 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. at Fire Station 11, not only equips participants with the skills to save lives but also awards them with a certification card and workbook, all for $75. Those interested can sign up for the course through an online registration link provided by the department on their Facebook page.