Recently, NCC’s Crisis Task Force implemented five additional Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) across campus. An AED is a device used to help individuals in cardiac arrest.
“If someone comes upon a situation where a person is not conscious and not breathing, it is important to make sure it is safe for the responder to provide assistance,” said Ashley Klco, director of campus safety. “Once this occurs, the next step is to contact 9-1-1 and if possible, send someone to retrieve an AED.”
New AED Locations
The new AEDs are located in the following areas across campus:
- New Hall, south vestibule
- Kiekhofer Hall, near the entrance to Koten Chapel
- Oesterle Library, main floor lobby
- White Activities Center, main floor lobby near the stairwell
- Kaufman Dining Hall, lobby near Geiger Hall
“There are several factors that help to determine where to place the AEDs on campus. One factor is in the facilities where we have events with a large population of guests. The second is based on where the building is located on campus and the proximity to an AED device,” said Klco.
Existing AED Locations
As a reminder, AEDs are also located in:
- Old Main, first floor near east doors
- Larrance Academic Center, first-floor lobby
- Pfeiffer Hall, first floor near the east entrance
- Wentz Fine Arts Center, main floor lobby
- Wentz Science Center, first floor near southeast doors
- Merner Field House, first floor near southeast doors
- Residence Hall/Recreation Center, main floor lobby and weight room
- Dyson Wellness Center
“In the event of a medical emergency, please call 9-1-1 and locate the nearest AED. When possible, contact Campus Safety at 630-637-5911,” said Klco. Campus Safety officers have portable AEDs in their vehicles so a certified individual can perform CPR until it arrives.
AEDs are easy to use because they provide audible instructions when turned on. “An AED may be able to provide a specific shock to re-establish an effective heart rhythm,” said Klco.
For students, faculty and staff members looking to become familiar with learning CPR and how to operate an AED, Klco encourages individuals to learn more about the services that Campus Safety offers. “Campus Safety provides training on CPR/AEDs and offers opportunities to receive certification by the American Heart Association. Learning how to properly perform CPR and use a training AED is a skill that can be anytime, anywhere,” said Klco.
Additionally, in honor of American Heart Month, the Department of Campus Safety will host two trainings in February that are open to the campus community to become certified in CPR/AED. The cost for certification is $25 per person. The training will take place on:
- Thursday, February 13, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the New Hall Multipurpose Room
- Sunday, February 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the New Hall Multipurpose Room
