Lifesaving Made Local: Brattleboro Installs Automated Defibrillator at Living Memorial Park
The Town of Brattleboro has installed its first publicly accessible, outdoor automated external defibrillator (AED) at Living Memorial Park, located outside the front entrance of the Nelson Withington Skating Facility. An AED is a portable electronic device that can analyze a person’s heart rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an electric shock (called defibrillation) to help the heart re-establish an effective rhythm during sudden cardiac arrest. The device was donated by Brattleboro Senior Corp.
“This project shows what Brattleboro does best — working together to make our community safer and stronger. Thanks to our partners and Town staff, we now have a lifesaving resource right where people gather every day,” said Brattleboro Town Manager John Potter.
The placement of this AED was in direct response to the high volume of activity at Living Memorial Park, particularly the popular pickleball courts located just outside the skating rink. The device is unique in that it’s directly linked to the fire alarm system. When the AED door is opened, an alarm will sound, and a signal will be automatically transmitted to Brattleboro's dispatch center.
“If someone is experiencing a cardiac arrest or other medical emergency, emergency services will be en route before 911 is even activated,” said Billy Fritz, EMS Superintendent of the Brattleboro Fire Department. This immediate activation is critical because every second matters when responding to cardiac arrest, he added. According to the American Red Cross, for every minute that passes without CPR and defibrillation, a person’s chance of survival decreases by about 10 percent.
Fritz noted that the public should still call 911 if they use the machine to relay detailed information to dispatch.
Pictured above: Town staff stand next to the new AED installed outside the Nelson Withington Skating Facility at Living Memorial Park. From left to right, Park Supervisor Paul Ethier, EMS Superintendent Billy Fritz, and Recreation & Parks Director Carol Lolatte.
The device is user-friendly and provides clear audio prompts, guiding individuals through the process of applying the pads and using the machine safely and effectively. The AED is equipped with both adult and pediatric pads, and is compatible with equipment used by Brattleboro Fire, ensuring uninterrupted care for the patient.
"We are really excited to have this device here because AEDs save lives," said Carol Lolatte, Brattleboro Recreation & Parks Director. “It represents a significant step forward in supporting the safety and well-being of everyone who enjoys Living Memorial Park.”
Lolatte thanked the Brattleboro Fire Department, Brattleboro Senior Corp, and King’s Electric for assisting with the project.
Fritz said that while an AED helps with early activation and defibrillation, responding to cardiac arrest also involves the ability to deliver high-quality CPR. The American Heart Association maintains an online database of courses available throughout the region, including first aid, CPR and AED training, along with basic information about responding to cardiac arrest.