Board hears plan for AED placements, assigns monthly checks and pushes public CPR/AED training

Board members reviewed the AED units purchased through a grant and placed at county community sites. Public health explained the department procured the devices for distribution but did not intend to retain ownership or operate an AED program. Several board members noted county liability if devices are not inspected and maintained.

Judy (identified at the meeting) said she is listed as the AED program coordinator in the records and will take responsibility for monthly inspections and reporting; she said she obtained login access to the vendor system and will complete the required monthly checks. Board members recommended coordinating an annual public CPR/AED class for likely device users at the event center and senior center and suggested county staff or local EMTs could teach public sessions to satisfy training expectations.

The board asked staff to clarify whether plaques or donor labels on AEDs imply county responsibility; staff agreed to review labeling and to coordinate a training schedule. Several members emphasized documentation: monthly checks must be recorded to meet state requirements and reduce liability if a device fails during an emergency. Public health stressed that if the grant does not impose ongoing county operational responsibility, ownership and maintenance remain with whichever entity agreed to accept the device.