(Twitter/Maude Burke School)

By Mat Barrett

Heart Safe Melfort

Maude Burke Elementary in Melfort installs AED

May 8, 2019 | 12:00 PM

An elementary school in Melfort has become the second school in the city to install an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).

Maude Burke Elementary School announced on Tuesday, May 8, they officially have an AED in their school after some time.

The process of getting an AED began a few years ago according to Principal Randy Steciuk, but it was put on hold until recently. Back in October, Melfort Ambulance did a few presentations at Maude Burke for Re-Start a Heart Day that they stretched throughout the month. Wayne Therres of Melfort Ambulance said he was approached by Steciuk about getting an AED into the school. That led to some research by the school and ultimately purchasing one. The school was planning to fundraise for the project, but the Royal Bank in Melfort helped out by contributing over half of the funds needed.

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“We hope to never have to use the unit,” Steciuk said. “But having an AED resource in our possession is a great feeling.”

The unit is even able to have a lower charge for smaller children. Steciuk said they already have three staff trained in using the device, as well as First Aid and CPR.

“We will continue to have certified staff,” he said. “But in knowing the ease of use, a parent in our building without training would be able to properly use the device if needed.”

Wayne Therres with Melfort Ambulance told northeastNOW there are about 25 units in various businesses around town and lots of people are trained as well.

“I’m happy to see one in the elementary school there,” Therres said. “Anything that can help to make our community heart safe is a huge bonus to us as an ambulance provider or paramedics.”

The only other school in Melfort with an AED is Melfort and Unit Comprehensive Collegiate which has two machines in the building. Therres said they are already in talks with other schools in the city.

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mat.barrett@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @matbarrett6