NORTH OLMSTED, OHIO--Lifesaving technology could soon be riding along with the city’s police cruisers.
North Olmsted police have received a $10,500 grant from Fairview Hospital and the Cleveland Clinic Foundation to purchase and install automated external defibrillators in seven police cruisers.
Safety Director Scott Thomas, who spearheaded the effort to obtain the grant, said he hopes to have officers trained in using the devices by Oct. 1. Thomas wants the AEDs installed and on the road by early October.
"It’s a good idea because out on the street, police are often the first to respond to a situation,” he said. “With training, it could save a life.”
He said the city approached Fairview Hospital and asked if officials there would be willing to support the AED program.
“They jumped at the chance.”
Thomas believes officers will have numerous opportunities to save lives using the new equipment. “When you save someone’s life, there’s nothing greater,” he said. “I’m sure a number of our officers will have that chance, and I think they’ll find this an excellent tool to have with them.”
SOURCE: Cleveland.com