Editor:
Re: Defibrillator needed at curling rink, letter to the editor, Dec. 7
On behalf of the municipality, we extend our deepest sympathies for the loss of a fellow curling companion on Nov. 15.
In regards to the letter to the editor, we must correct information provided regarding the defibrillator and emergency response times at the South Delta Recreation Centre.
It is important to note that an automatic external defibrillator (AED) is located in every Delta recreation centre, arena and seniors centre. Each and every staff member, including the curling club's manager, is aware of the AEDs location and the device is checked daily by municipal staff to ensure it is operable and ready for use.
At the time of the victim's collapse, a call was placed to 911 immediately. Delta Fire and Emergency Services received the call at 14: 29: 06 and were on route by 14: 29: 19, 13 seconds later. Delta Fire and Emergency Services arrived on site at 14: 33: 34, a response time of four minutes, 15 seconds, as opposed to the approximate 10 minutes cited in the letter.
Fire personnel took over administration of first aid from the volunteer and municipal staff at that time. The ambulance arrived at 14: 41: 10 and paramedics took over treatment at that point.
The AED unit at South Delta Recreation Centre was dispatched to the victim and treatment was administered immediately by recreation staff and a separate AED was also used by Delta Fire and Emergency Services.
In both instances, the AED did not administer a shock as the curler's heart condition was not in a suitable state for the unit to respond.
This is not unusual as an AED is only useful to restart the heart rhythm when the person's heart is able to receive it.
We certainly appreciate the feedback and want to assure everyone the wellbeing of our patrons is of the utmost importance to the Corporation of Delta and we take all necessary measures to ensure their safety.
Ken Kuntz Director of Parks, Recreation and Culture Dan Copeland Fire Chief
