Sudden cardiac arrest can strike anybody at any time. The heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating. Moments count. To help save lives on Bowen Island the people of action in the Rotary club there have worked with authorities and neighbourhoods to install 25 automated external defibrillators or AEDs so far at key locations around the island. An AED is a portable device that checks the heart rhythm and can send an electric shock to the heart to try to restore a normal rhythm.
Each installation stores the AED unit in a protective "Bird House". While the AED is a crucial element in saving the life of someone who is experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, it is necessary that there are people nearby who know how to respond to this emergency. Some training is part of the program. Bowen Island Rotary has been facilitating both the financing and installation of the AED units. Encouraging island neighbours to help neighbours the club has been developing cooperation of residents adjacent to each installation to support the service.
Each AED installation is on public land. Once it is set up, the Municipality of Bowen Island assumes ownership. The Fire Department has agreed to check them regularly and replace batteries when needed.