Grants help business buy defibrillators

When someone collapses in sudden cardiac arrest, quick action means the difference between life and death. Quick access to an automatic external defibrillator (AED) can save someone's life.

Sisters-area businesses and organizations can now apply for grant money to purchase an AED. The grants range from $250-$750.

Sudden cardiac arrest is an abrupt loss of heart function usually as a result of an abnormal heart rhythm. It is a leading cause of death in the United States. An AED is a lightweight, portable device that delivers an electric shock through the chest to the heart. That shock can stop an irregular heart rhythm and allow normal heart function to resume.

The American Heart Association estimates that immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and early defibrillation with an AED can substantially increase a victim's chance of survival.

"Every second counts when it comes to treating Sudden Cardiac Arrest," according to Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District Chief Roger Johnson. "We want to do everything we can in our coverage area to maximize survivability."

CPR and AED training is available through the Sisters-Camp Sherman RFPD. Call 541-549-0771 for more information or visit the website at www.sistersfire.com to sign up.

Applications for AED grants can be found at https://www.sistersfire.com/home/contact/aed-grant-application/. The deadline for applications is March 1.