By Bonnie Culverhouse
Minden Police Department is taking STEPs to save lives. Thanks to funding from the Safety Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP), the department was able to reimburse the City of Minden for 2 portable defibrillators to give emergency care in case of cardiac arrest.
“We will place one in the office of the police department and one back near the holding cells,” said Chief Jared McIver. “The goal for the future is to slowly add to the AED wish list until we have one for every patrol car.”
Cost is between $1,800 and $2,200, depending on the model.
“We are checking into grants to get more,” McIver said. “If we have to, we will just purchase a few every year until we get enough for every unit.”
Roger Mattei with ZOLL Medical demonstrated the automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for the department, answering officers’ questions.
“It’s important that you guys have them and know where they are at all times,” Mattei said. “That you are ready to use it if something occurs. Minutes and seconds can make all the difference..”
Mattei said the devices increase survival rates and are relatively “easy” to use.
This particular model has instructions and on the inside and outside of the packaging, as well as an automated voice that gives directions.
