In a move that brings new meaning to community service, the Minnetonka Fire Department has rolled out a program that offers Minnetonka residents the opportunity to borrow Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) for community events. This initiative aims to bolster readiness for sudden cardiac arrest situations, which, regardless of time or place, can strike anyone, anywhere. According to the fire department's announcement, the availability of AEDs can significantly bump up the survival chances for someone experiencing a cardiac event by providing an essential electrical shock to re-establish a normal heartbeat.
For all its life-saving potential, the program does lay down a few key guidelines. The borrowed AEDs must remain within the boundaries of Minnetonka, and despite their user-friendliness, the borrower is held accountable for the safekeeping, operation, and timely return of the equipment. Unfortunately, requests must be lodged at least five business days ahead of the event, reports the Minnetonka Fire Department website.
Notably, access to these medical devices is meted out on a first-come, first-served basis—so early birds catch the worm in this life-saving endeavor. If a borrower wishes to keep the AED for more than the standard seven-day period, arrangements must be made with the program's coordinator. Training on how to perform hands-only CPR and use the AED comes courtesy of Minnetonka Fire personnel, but it's subject to availability, so planning is crucial.
Those interested in applying the brakes to a potential cardiac disaster by borrowing an AED will need to jump through a few administrative hoops. Upon picking up the device, the borrower is required to sign a loan agreement, complete a checklist, and front a $200 deposit. Provided the AED comes back within the seven-day window and in the same condition, the check will remain untouched, much like using a deposit to reserve a spot at a campsite, then leaving no trace of your stay.
Training sessions and AED pickups are scheduled during the workweek, and for those weekend warriors hosting an event, arrangements can be made to collect the device on Friday and return it the following Monday. To get more details on the AED loaner program or to schedule training, one can give the department a ring at 952-939-8598 or send an email to Deputy Fire Marshal Sara Ahlquist, and be a step ahead in the fight to save lives.
