Smyrna rolls out new Automated External Defibrillator program

Study Finds Defibrillators In Public Areas Double Survival Rate CHICAGO - NOVEMBER 12: A brochure explaining the use and location of Automated External Defibrillators is displayed November 12, 2003 at O'Hare International Airport in Chicago. An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a user-friendly device that when used properly on a person suffering a sudden cardiac arrest administers an electric shock to the heart. Its built-in microprocessor then assesses the patient's heart rhythm, judging whether more defibrillation would be needed. The Chicago Airport System implemented the first public-access defibrillation program at all its airports, including O'Hare International Airport. Defibrillators are strategically located throughout the airport terminals within a one-minute walk from any point in the airport. The units are in cabinets that are directly linked to the City of Chicago's emergency medical services. (Photo by Tim Boyle/Getty Images) (Tim Boyle/Getty Images)

By WSB Radio News Staff

SMYRNA, GA — The city of Smyrna is rolling out its new Automated External Defibrillator program.

The more than two dozen life-saving devices are installed in strategic locations across the city.

Smyrna EMS Director Tim George says these new high tech devices connect directly with first responders.

“Many cardiac arrests happen outdoors but most of all AEDs live indoors,” George said.

George adds the devices are in special storage locations outside.

Six of the defibrillators are located in outdoor recreation areas.

“It is weatherized,” George said. “It will be available 24/7 and it will be able to withstand the heat and the cold.”

Those outdoor locations include Village Green Park and Riverview Park.

“This is very strategic in terms of where we wanted to place these AEDs,” Smyrna Fire Chief Brian Marcos said. “We want to represent not just the North End of the city, but the South End as well by Riverline.”