Grand Park places safety as a top priority. All park staff and support staff receive training and certification in CPR and the use of onsite AEDs by the Westfield Fire Department.
Within the sports campus, Grand Park maintains 14 AEDs. Nine are located at all concession stands and administration buildings. The Grand Park Events Center has five AEDs placed throughout the indoor facility.
“As a premier destination for youth sports, we place safety at the forefront,” said Westfield Mayor Andy Cook. “The investment in onsite AEDs and the continued training of our staff and partner organizations further reinforces that commitment.”
The importance of having onsite AEDs was on display in May 2016 when a 13-year-old boy playing in a baseball game was struck in the chest by the ball, causing his heart to stop. Bystanders rushed to his aid to administer CPR and used the AED from one of the concession stands, which contributed to saving his life.
According to the American Red Cross, all Americans should be within four minutes of an AED and someone trained to use it. The Red Cross estimates that improved training and access to AEDs could save 50,000 lives each year.
“The large number of visitors to Grand Park raises the likelihood of a cardiac emergency occurring onsite, whether it is a player or spectator,” said Marcus Reed, Westfield Fire Chief. “The training of staff in administering CPR and the use of AEDs while awaiting EMS services will help ensure more positive outcomes.”
In addition to the AEDs located in Grand Park campus buildings, Indiana Fire Juniors also have two trainer carts equipped with AEDs during their practices and events.
The recently announced partnership with Methodist Sports Medicine will also ensure that youth athletes are able to receive medical attention from top providers while attending training and events at Grand Park.