Prince George-Valemount Liberal MLA Shirley Bond looks on as bus driver Mike Hyland and Laine Smith, education officer for BC Emergency Health Services demonstrate how AEDs are used – photos 250 News

Prince George, B.C. – Northern Health Connections buses have been equipped with potentially life saving automated external defibrillators (AEDs).

The announcement was made this morning at the University Hospital of Northern BC (UHNBC).

Prince George-Mackenzie Liberal MLA Mike Morris 

“AEDs are the greatest things that have come along for first responders, emergency personnel and the general public period,” said Prince George-Mackenzie MLA Mike Morris.

“There are 11 buses in the fleet and the quality of care that’s provided on the bus is fantastic,” added Prince George-Valemount MLA Shirley Bond. “So a good news day today with an enhanced fleet and also some important tools for our drivers and people who are on the bus.”

Northern Connections bus driver Mike Hyland thinks AEDs make a “fabulous” addition to the fleet.

“Some passengers that have these conditions feel more comfortable that it’s there and that we’re properly trained to use it though I hope I never have to.”

Lori Cruddas, area manager for the Heart and Stroke Foundation, said AEDs save lives.

“There’s actually four sudden cardiac events in B.C. every four hours,” she said. “If somebody’s had a sudden cardiac event and has access to an AED, their chances of surviving will increase from as low as 10 or 12% to as high as 75%.”

In addition to the new AEDs, one coach and two mini coach buses have replaced older vehicles in the fleet as part of a new five-year contract.

Northern Health Connections offers affordable travel service for patients needing out-of-town medical appointments in northern B.C. and Vancouver.