"These 178 AEDs will make a real difference in the lives of so many Mainers because they will strengthen what's known as the chain of survival: an immediate call to 911, early CPR and defibrillation and early advanced life support," said Senator Susan Collins. "It is extremely gratifying to know that the results of our hard work on the AED legislation will be realized in lives saved."
In 2000, President Clinton signed into law the Rural Access to Emergency Devices Act, a law authored by Senator Susan Collins. The law increases access to AEDs for smaller towns and rural communities where those first on the scene may not be paramedics or others who would normally have defibrillators. It also authorizes a $25 million grant program that awards federal funds to community partnerships consisting of local emergency responders, police and fire departments, hospitals, and other community organizations for the purchase of AEDs and the training of responders in their use.
Local First Responders will conduct a demonstration of the devices. Dr. John Burton, State EMS Medical Director, and Jay Bradshaw, Director of Maine Emergency Medical Services, will participate in the news conference and be on hand to answer questions.
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