Doug Kit, safety sales specialist with Acklands Grainger, holds an AED.
The Portage Rotary Club learned about automated external deliberators (AED) on Tuesday from Acklands Grainger Safety Sales Specialist Doug Kit.
“We’re getting a lot of requests from companies about more information about AEDs because of the publicity about the public law, so we thought it would be a good idea, because it can save thousands of lives every year that’s why we thought it was important to do the presentation,” said Kit.
The province of Manitoba passed legislation in December 2012 requiring the installation of AEDs in high-traffic public places such as gyms, arenas, community centres, golf courses, schools and airports by January 31, 2014.
Kit’s presentation gave background information on the device, how to use it, as well as, the cost and when it should be used.
According to Kit, Acklands has sold more than 200 devices since the province passed the new legislation.
“We sold a lot last year when were starting to get the word out on AEDs and legislation certainly kick started a lot of newer business,” said Kit.
Kit said devices retail between $800 and $1,500.