Spearfish Adds More AEDs in Patrol Vehicles, City Hall

SPEARFISH, S.D. (AP) — The city of Spearfish has bought 11 additional automated external defibrillators to ensure that the equipment used during emergencies is more accessible to first responders and bystanders.

These defibrillators, commonly known as AEDs, check the heart rhythm and can send an electric shock to the heart to try to restore a normal rhythm. AEDs are used to treat sudden cardiac arrest, which is when the heart suddenly stops beating.

The Black Hills Pioneer reports the AEDs will be placed in police department patrol vehicles and at Spearfish City Hall.

Andy Binder with Spearfish Emergency Ambulance Service says the devices will allow for faster care of individuals in emergency situations.

City councilors authorized nearly $15,000 for the equipment, and the city recently hosted training for the police department.

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