The Hawaii Police Department received a donation of 20 automated external defibrillators (AEDs) on June 15 from the Max and Yetta Karasik Family Foundation, with the goal of keeping the community healthy.
The donation was made possible through a partnership between the Karasik Family Foundation and the Hilo Medical Center Foundation. The $34,994.96 donation includes a four-year maintenance plan and needed accessories for the AEDs as well.
The new equipment will be given to officers throughout the island in an effort to provide them valuable medical resources that are needed in cases of medical emergency.
“Hawaii Police Department appreciates the generous donation of AEDs, as it will provide valuable tools for our officers as they continue to assist our community,” said Hawaii Police Department Chief Paul Ferreira, according to the department's website.
With 17.3 million deaths each year, cardiac arrest is the No. 1 global cause of death, according to the Hilo Medical Center Foundation. This number is expected to increase to 23.6 million by 2030.
In addition, the Hilo Medical Center Foundation states that of the recorded 19,300 bystander-witnessed cardiac arrest incidents that could be effectively treated with an AED, 31.4% survived.
"On Hawaii Island, the survival rate has increased from 4% in 2014 to nearly 12% in 2018," said the Hilo Medical Center Foundation.
The "Be a Lifesaver Hawaii" program's mission is to bring awareness to cardiac arrest, and for others to learn how AEDs save lives in cardiac arrest situations. The program encourages everyone to get training -- not just medical professionals who work in a hospital setting.
The training teaches individuals about sudden cardiac arrest care and CPR practices that continue to save lives.