Donation brings life-saving AED to Smiths Falls arena

A new Automated External Defibrillator (AED) has been installed at the Memorial Community Centre in Smiths Falls, thanks to a donation from MP Scott Reid and the Harmony Seniors Club.

The device is located next to the walking concourse and will be available in case of cardiac emergencies. Town officials say the AED will help improve safety for residents, visitors and community members.

“Defibrillators save lives,” Reid said. “Having one readily available when a person is hit by a heart attack can make all the difference between life and death. A reduction of a single minute between when ventricular fibrillation occurs and when an AED is applied can enormously increase the odds of survival.”

Stephanie Clark, the town’s director of community services, said accessible AEDs are an important part of protecting public health, especially in areas used by older adults and vulnerable people.

“We are incredibly grateful for this generous contribution from MP Scott Reid and the Harmony Seniors Club,” she said.