PHOTO: An automated external defibrillator (AED) is located on the first floor of the City’s offices at 700 Main Center.
City of Victoria first responders are implementing a new app-based system that will improve cardiac arrests patients’ access to lifesaving defibrillation, and residents can play a role in keeping the app updated.
The Victoria Fire Department and the Victoria Police Department’s 911 dispatch have adopted the PulsePoint AED registry to keep track of the locations of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) throughout Victoria. Using the registry, 911 dispatchers can alert callers to the location of the nearest AED so that the caller can perform defibrillation on a person experiencing cardiac arrest before EMS arrives.
“Early defibrillation is the cornerstone of cardiac arrest survival,” said Victoria Fire Department EMS Assistant Chief Mark Martyn. “The continuum of care begins with first aid being provided on the scene, and this new system will equip residents to begin providing lifesaving treatment right away during an emergency.”
How it works
PHOTO: This image from the PulsePoint AED app shows the location of the AED at 700 Main Center. The entry includes a photo and a written description of the AED’s location.
The app features an interactive map of AED locations throughout Victoria, including photos and descriptions of where they are located.
Residents can download the app to view the locations of AEDs in Victoria. When a resident calls 911 for a cardiac arrest patient, the dispatcher will let the resident know if an AED is nearby.
The app also includes the locations of AEDs that are not accessible to the general public (in employee-only areas of office buildings, for example). Residents may need to request assistance to access AEDs in off-limits areas.
How to update the map
PHOTO: Victoria residents can download the PulsePoint AED app to view the locations of AEDs and add AEDs to the interactive registry.
Residents can use the app to add AED locations to the map.
The app uses the phone’s location to place a pin on the map, which residents can adjust to show the location of the AED.
Once a location is added, residents will be invited to upload photos of the AED and the surrounding area, add a description of the AED’s location and indicate whether the AED is in an off-limits area or requires any other special instructions.
The Victoria Fire Department will review new AED locations, approve them and add any missing information before they are added to the map.
So far, more than 30 AED locations in Victoria have been registered within the app. The Victoria Fire Department is working with area businesses and community partners to register as many AEDs as possible.
Get started
Residents can download the free app by searching “PulsePoint AED” on their phone’s app store.
Residents can also add AED locations online by visiting www.aedregistry.pulsepoint.org.
Stay connected
For more information about Victoria Fire Department programs and services, visit www.victoriatx.gov/fire.