Naperville, IL – The city of Naperville is taking a significant leap in public health safety by focusing on increasing the accessibility of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in local businesses. This initiative, a collaborative effort by the Naperville Fire Department, Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce, Naperville Citizens Appreciate Public Safety, and the Rotary Club of Naperville, was formally announced at the Naperville City Council meeting on January 16. Titled “Make Naperville a Cardiac Conscious Community,” the program is designed to address the critical need for AEDs in private businesses.
According to the Naperville Fire Department Chief Mark Puknaitis, the initiative aims to bridge the gap in emergency preparedness in the event of cardiac emergencies. The program offers AEDs at a discounted price of $500, substantially lower than their typical retail cost of $2,000. Furthermore, the Naperville Fire Department is set to provide complimentary training for staff members in these businesses, ensuring they are prepared and capable of operating the AEDs during emergencies.
Kaylin Risvold, President and CEO of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce, stressed the importance of not only equipping businesses with AEDs but also ensuring that employees are trained and aware of their locations and usage.
This initiative is open to the first 20 registrants in February, emphasizing the urgency and importance of this life-saving equipment in the community. Local businesses and organizations are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity and contribute to making Naperville a safer place.
For participation details, contact the Naperville Fire Department at NFDPublicEducation@naperville.il.us.
