New AED Save Station at Coxhall Gardens enhances visitor safety

(From left) Christopher Gullion (HCPR), Bruce Oldham (HCPR Deputy Director), Becky Cheetham (Coxhall Guild President), Chief Andrew Young (Carmel Fire Department), Chief Joel Thacker (Carmel Fire Department), Chris Stice (HCPR Director), and Erica Foreman (HCPR) celebrate the addition of an AED Save Station at Coxhall Gardens with a ribbon cutting. (Photo provided)

Visitors to Coxhall Gardens now have quick access to life-saving equipment thanks to the installation of a new AED Save Station near the Children’s Garden. The project was made possible through the generosity of the Coxhall Guild, which donated the Save Station, and the Carmel Fire Department, which donated the Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and Stop the Bleed Kit housed inside.

The station provides 24/7 access to critical emergency tools that can make the difference in cardiac or trauma situations, giving park guests and staff the ability to take immediate, life-saving action while waiting for first responders to arrive.

“We are so grateful to the Coxhall Guild and Carmel Fire Department for their ongoing partnership and commitment to public safety,” said Chris Stice, Director of Hamilton County Parks and Recreation. “This installation reflects our shared dedication to creating safe, welcoming spaces for everyone who enjoys Coxhall Gardens.”

(From left) Cheetham, Chief Young, Chief Thacker, and Stice stand next to the new AED Save Station. (Photo provided)

The Coxhall Guild has long supported enhancements which include facility improvements, artwork installments such as sculptures and murals, and much more. Their latest contribution underscores their mission to ensure that Coxhall Gardens remains a safe and enjoyable destination for the community.

“Every minute counts in an emergency,” said Chief Andrew Young of the Carmel Fire Department. “By making AEDs and trauma supplies accessible in public spaces like Coxhall Gardens, we’re empowering community members to act quickly and potentially save lives.”

The new Save Station is part of Hamilton County Parks and Recreation’s ongoing effort to enhance emergency readiness across its park system through community partnerships and proactive safety initiatives. This year HCPR has installed eight AED Save Stations throughout various parks, providing the public with 24/7 access to life-saving equipment. In addition, all HCPR staff are trained in AED use, first aid, Narcan administration, Stop the Bleed response, and suicide prevention awareness.