Friends Group Donates New Defibrillator to the Lakeshore

Date: January 26, 2007
Contact: Larry Johnson, Chief Ranger, 231-326-5134

Thanks to another generous donation from the Friends of the Sleeping Bear Dunes, the National Lakeshore was able to purchase an automated external defibrillator (AED) for use at the Platte River Campground.  This much needed piece of medical equipment may enable National Park Service staff to save the lives of park visitors who experience medical emergencies such as cardiac arrest.

“An AED could mean the difference between life and death to someone having a heart attack,” said Dusty Shultz, Lakeshore Superintendent.  “This is another example of how partner groups are helping us improve the visitor experience at the Lakeshore and cope with an ever tightening federal budget.”  The American Heart Association has identified the following as critical links in the chain of survival from cardiac arrest:

• Early access to the patient
• Early CPR by first responders or bystanders
• Early defibrillation with an AED
• Early advanced life support

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore currently has six other AEDs throughout the park.  They are located in the Philip Hart Visitor Center, the Dune Center, D.H. Day Campground, Leelanau Ranger Station, South Manitou Island Ranger Station, and the North Manitou Island Ranger Station.  During 2006, 52 Lakeshore staff members received training in CPR and the use of the AED devices.

The Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes was established in 1994 to assist in the preservation, restoration and interpretation of the natural, cultural, historical and recreational resources of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.  “Since their inception, the Friends have truly been an exceptional partner through their donation of time, talents and contributions,” said Superintendent Shultz.

For more information on Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore call 231-326-5134.