“If you save one life, you save the world.” This timeless saying encapsulates the value of every human life. As a first responder, I have witnessed the transformative impact of second chances—where one saved life ripples across families, workplaces, and communities. This concept is why Poudre Fire Authority is partnering with our community to save lives through the HeartSafe Community Initiative.
What is a HeartSafe Community?
The HeartSafe Community initiative is a proactive, community-based effort to improve outcomes from sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). The initiative aims to empower citizens and organizations with the tools and confidence to respond in those crucial first moments of SCA. With less than 50% of SCA victims receiving assistance before emergency responders arrive, we are calling on you, our citizen responders, to help close that gap.
How can you help?
You don’t need to be a medical professional to save a life. Anyone can be a responder by taking a few simple steps:
- Learn compression-only CPR
- Learn how to use an AED (automated external defibrillator)
- Download the PulsePoint app and enable notifications
- Encourage family, friends, and coworkers to do the same
CPR/AED training is free and available on Poudre Fire Authority’s website along with links to download the PulsePoint app: https://www.poudre-fire.org/living-safe/cpr-pulsepoint. As a trained citizen responder, you could be the one who makes a difference by initiating CPR while help is on the way. In these situations, every second truly matters.
Building an Accessible AED Network
Most AEDs in our community are inside buildings or inaccessible outside of business hours. Our goal is to strategically place 24/7-accessible AED kiosks within our community. These will ensure that lifesaving equipment is always within reach during an emergency.
Your financial support – no matter the size – can directly fund the placement of these devices. In the event of a cardiac arrest, a 911 dispatcher will identify the nearest AED and guide the bystander to retrieve it. It’s a simple intervention with lifesaving potential.
Join our HeartSafe Community Initiative
By participating in the HeartSafe Community initiative, you are investing in a safer, stronger, and more resilient community. Together, we can build a network of citizen responders, increase access to AEDs, and foster a culture of readiness and care. To learn more or to get involved, please complete our HeartSafe Community Interest Form: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PR3GPWM. Let’s save lives together!