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In the Community > Partnership Profiles > Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Program

Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Program

Photo of Sergeant Sean O'Carroll (left) recieving a guardian angel pin for saving the life of Marcel Sauve (right) in 2003.

The Ottawa Police Service is committed to the Public Access Defibrillation Program as a way of enhancing the delivery of emergency medical services. Since June 2001, all of our front line police cruisers, police stations, and most Community Police Centres have been equipped with an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED).

The City of Ottawa, through their Heart Safe City Program, have purchased over 300 AED's for Ottawa establishments such as community centers and public pools, and provided the necessary training. In partnership with the Ottawa Paramedic Service, we work together every day to respond to emergencies, including those of citizens who experience sudden cardiac arrest.

Why have a program like AED?

Approximately 600 to 700 Sudden Cardiac Arrests occur each year in the City of Ottawa. Sudden Cardiac Arrest is defined as cardiac related sudden death. Contrary to popular belief it can happen to anyone, anytime at any age or gender, regardless of physical condition. Approximately 60,000 Canadians die each year from Sudden Cardiac Arrest.

Chain of Survival

Medical research clearly indicates that the probability of survival following a Sudden Cardiac Arrest increases dramatically with early defibrillation. Researchers have developed a recipe to increase survival rates from Sudden Cardiac Arrest. It is called a chain of survival. It is comprised of 4 links:

  • early access (911)
  • early CPR
  • early defibrillation
  • advanced life support

Medical research clearly indicates that the probability for survival following a sudden cardiac arrest increases dramatically with early medical intervention. While the primary mandate of the Ottawa Police Service remains policing, early intervention by our officers with the use of an Automatic External defibrillator could have a profound effect on the determination of whether an individual survives sudden cardiac arrest.

If you have any questions regarding the AED Program, you can contact Sergeant Rick Giroux at girouxr@ottawapolice.ca.