MILFORD: A new Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is now available 24/7 at the Milford Recreation Hall, a move local organizers say could one day save a li,fe.
The community gathered recently for a hands-on information session on how to recognize cardiac arrest and use the AED, led by Mike Janczyszyn, AED Registry Program Coordinator and a paramedic with EHS.
“Tonight’s all about helping people recognize when someone is going into sudden cardiac arrest and empowering them to do something rather than nothing,” said Janczyszyn.
“It’s about resuscitation and building confidence in the community.”
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The initiative was made possible through a partnership between SaveLivesNS, EHS, and the Milford Recreation Association.
While an AED had been located inside the hall for several years thanks to a donation from the Jordan Boyd Foundation, the group recently took steps to make it even more accessible.
“Our hall is really busy with lots of different groups — from youth programs to weddings to pickleball,” said Peter Giffen, with the Milford Recreation Association.
“We decided to move the AED outside in a heated cabinet so it’s available year-round, anytime someone might need it.”
That decision came after Josh Wagner of Milford Fire suggested relocating the AED to an outdoor, weather-protected cabinet so it could be accessed at any time — even when the hall is closed.
“Josh brought the idea forward a few years ago,” Giffen said. “He recognized that having it outside made sense, especially with all the activity around the hall and ball fields. Now anyone nearby can grab it in an emergency without delay.”
Representatives from Lantz, Milford, and Elmsdale fire along with some residents were in attendance for the presentation at the hall.
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The weatherproof cabinet keeps the device heated and protected through the winter months, ensuring it’s ready whenever needed.
“Research shows the importance of AED’s being accessible all the time,” Janczyszyn said.
“In some places, devices are locked after hours, which limits their use. We’re trying to change that by encouraging communities to make them available 24/7.”
Janczyszyn also encouraged other community groups to reach out if they’re interested in getting an AED or an outdoor cabinet.
Applications and information are available through SaveLivesNS.ca, where requests are reviewed based on community need.
As part of World Restart a Heart Day on October 16, Janczyszyn hoped the Milford event inspires more Nova Scotians to learn CPR and become familiar with AEDs.
“When the time comes, people can panic,” Giffen added. “That’s why it’s so important to keep these skills fresh — especially in a rural community like ours.”
Sidebar: How to Find Your Nearest AED
- Visit SaveLivesNS.ca and use the AED Registry Map to find the closest device to your home, school, or workplace.
- Download the AED Registry mobile app to see nearby units and directions on your phone.
- AEDs are designed to be simple and safe — anyone can use one by following the voice prompts.
- In an emergency, call 911 immediately, start CPR, and use the AED as soon as possible.
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