Oakland receives donation of lifesaving gear, will install defibrillators at recreation centers

An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) device is pictured. The city of Oakland has received 34 AEDs through a donation from PG&E and plans to install the units at its youth and recreation facilities. (U.S. Food and Drug Administration)

Oakland will soon install 34 defibrillators at public recreation centers following a donation from PG&E, city officials said.

The Automated External Defibrillators — which are expected to be installed at Oakland Parks, Recreation and Youth Development facilities — are portable medical devices used to help people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. They can analyze the heart’s rhythm and, if needed, deliver an electric shock to help re-establish a normal heartbeat.

The defibrillators will be placed in locked cabinets in visible, easily accessible areas at OPRYD facilities, city officials said. Two more mobile units will be provided to support games held away from recreation centers or at satellite locations.

“Thanks to PG&E’s donation, these devices will ensure every City of Oakland recreational facility has the tools to provide life-saving care in the event of a cardiac event,” Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee said in a statement.

Jake Zigelman, PG&E Vice President of the Bay Area Region, said the initiative aligns with the company’s focus on safety.

“At PG&E, safety is our most important responsibility, so it is fitting that we work to enhance safety and well-being here in Oakland,” Zigelman said. “Our coworkers are trained in CPR and First Aid, as well as how to operate AEDs to save lives. We know how essential these machines are when every second counts, and we are pleased to help our headquarter city improve the safety of their recreational facilities.”

The post Oakland receives donation of lifesaving gear, will install defibrillators at recreation centers appeared first on Local News Matters.

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