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Council adopts AED resolution after survivor's account; city launches living AED registry and free CPR training
Summary
The Jefferson City Council adopted a resolution formalizing city goals for AED purchase, maintenance and installation in city‑owned buildings, and staff outlined a public AED registry, training, and outreach tied to American Heart Month.
Jefferson City councilors voted to adopt a resolution committing the city to goals on the purchase, maintenance and installation of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in city‑owned buildings after emergency responders and a survivor described how bystander CPR and an AED saved a life.
Why it matters: Presenters and a survivor said quick bystander action and AED use dramatically increase survival from sudden cardiac arrest. Staff described an AED mapping project and training that aim to increase public access and awareness.
What presenters said: Chief of EMS Eric Hoyt told council that sudden cardiac arrest accounts for roughly one in five U.S. deaths and that Jefferson City recorded 66 sudden cardiac arrest patients in 2024, with six survivors discharged from the hospital (a survival rate of about 9.1 percent locally). He said bystander CPR increases survival to roughly 35 percent and bystander CPR plus AED use increases survival to roughly 66 percent.
Survivor Tom Fast, who suffered a cardiac arrest at the Missouri Lottery building on May 24, 2024, described coworkers who immediately began CPR, retrieved an on‑site AED and followed 911 instructions; a single AED shock restored a normal heart rhythm, and Fast later required stents at the hospital. Missouri Lottery director Lester Elder and the company’s security staff were introduced and publicly recognized for their response.
City program and training: Staff described a “living registry” GIS map of AED locations created with a QR‑code form the public can use to register devices. Presenters said the map currently lists 84 private AEDs and 27 in public spaces (City Hall, fire administration, central maintenance and other city facilities); two additional installations were in progress and three AEDs were recommended for inclusion with planned projects. The city and Cole County EMS scheduled a free hands‑only CPR and AED class for Feb. 19 from 1:30–3:30 p.m. at the JCPD training room, 401 Monroe St.; staff said additional sessions could be scheduled.
Resolution and vote: Councilman Lighthood moved to approve the resolution and Councilman Spencer seconded. The resolution was adopted by roll call; one councilor recorded a “No” and the motion carried.
Ending: Staff said flyers and the AED map would be posted on the city website and promoted through social media and business associations. Presenters asked council members to help share the QR code and training information with constituents.
