~ Making Communities in Dutchess County HEART Safe
      ~ Application Packet (.pdf)
      ~ Application Process
      ~ Dutchess County HEART Safe Community Application Form (.pdf)
      ~ Additional Documents and Resources
            Glossary of Terms
      ~ Sample AED Response Plan (.pdf)
      ~ Print Version (.pdf)

Who can apply to be designated HEART Safe?
Any entity within the community meeting the defined criteria.

Is there an application fee?
No, there is no application fee.

Why should my agency/community be designated as HEART Safe?To make the agency/community a safer place to live, work, and play by being prepared as well as to reduce the number of deaths and disability associated with cardiac arrest.

When is the HEART Safe Community Designation application due?
HEART Safe designation application can be submitted to the Dutchess County Department of Health anytime.

For how long is the designation valid?
The HEART Safe Community designation is valid for two years, after which you will need to re-apply to maintain or upgrade your designation.

What is the cost associated with meeting the criteria to become a HEART Safe Community?
The cost will vary depending on characteristics including CPR training need and AED costs.

Who decides if an agency/community has met the criteria to be designated HEART Safe?
The Dutchess County HEART Safe committee is made up of Dutchess County Department of Health staff, representatives and/or volunteers of American Heart Association, and other community members appointed by the County Executive.

Will a shock always need to be delivered by the AED to an individual who has sudden cardiac arrest?
Once an AED is attached to the individual, it will look at the electrical activity of the heart.  If the electrical activity is “chaotic” and needs a “restart,” the AED will request a shock be delivered.  If someone is in cardiac arrest and the AED does not indicate a shock, CPR should be continued.

Is the AED safe to use?
AEDs are designed with multiple safeguards and warnings before any energy is released.  When using an AED, individuals should be trained or supervised by a trained person.

Can anyone buy an AED?
Yes, however, AEDs are manufactured and sold under guidelines approved by the FDA.  For organizational use, a New York State Department of Health form called “Notice of Intent to Provide Public Access to Defibrillation” must be completed and submitted.  For home use, current FDA rules require a physician’s prescription to purchase an AED.

How much does an AED cost?
There are a variety of AEDs available and cost vary..  In New York State, there is a $500 tax deduction available for businesses and organizations.  For resuscitation of a friend, coworker, or loved one, it’s priceless.  Websites for purchasing AEDs and financial assistance are provided on pages 10-11.

What type of maintenance is involved with an AED?
The AED requires a daily inspection to ensure the unit is functioning.   Weekly inspection is recommended to ensure the AED and the alarm on the cabinet is operating correctly and supplies are current.

Who can administer CPR and use the AED?
Anyone who is currently certified by an accredited organization or is acting under the direction of someone with training (i.e. 911), acting in good faith, and within the constraints of their certification receives immunity from liability under the Good Samaritan Law (Public Health Law 3000 a & b).  This law precludes liability for ordinary negligence (i.e. failure to exercise reasonable care, causing harm inadvertently). To read the law please log on to http://www.health.ny.gov/nysdoh/ems/art30.htm.

What if I am not trained?
If you come upon an unconscious individual and are not trained, it is of utmost importance to call 911.  In Dutchess County, an Enhanced 911 Operator will talk you through the steps of performing CPR and using an AED.  The 911 operator will also get emergency advanced care (ambulance) on the way quickly.

What if I need additional HEART Safe Community designation signs or decals?
For an additional fee, you can order additional signs or decals for your HEART Safe designated place.  To request additional signage, contact the Dutchess County Department of Health at 845.486.3421.

Please note:  Dutchess County HEART Safe Community designation signs are the property of Dutchess County Department of Health and must be returned to Dutchess County Department of Health if designation status is not maintained.