US Sailing announces a new 'Life Saving' Membership benefit

by Jake Fish on 25 Feb 2009 Cardiac Science and US Sailing are proud to announce a partnership that aims to improve the overall effectiveness of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) response for sailors at all US Sailing member yacht clubs.

This new alliance will increase the awareness and availability of Powerheart® automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to US Sailing members and affiliated programs at a significant discount.

The Powerheart G3 Plus AED Package includes the AED, lithium battery (with a four-year unconditional guarantee), two sets of adult defibrillation pads, one set of pediatric defibrillation pads, nylon carrying case, ready kit, and quick start took kit. Additional products are also available at low cost for US Sailing members.

Cardiac Science has been a supporter of US Sailing since late 2006. They proudly sponsored the National Sailing Programs Symposium (NSPS) events in 2007 (New Orleans), 2008 (St. Petersburg), and 2009 (San Diego). Their AED equipment has been deployed at US Sailing headquarters in Portsmouth, R.I. to protect the organization’s staff, guests, and visitors. Further, Cardiac Science’s clinical education team has trained US Sailing responders in the American Heart Association’s (AHA) Heartsaver AED/CPR curriculum.

AEDs are inexpensive, easy-to-use, laptop-sized devices that can save a victim suffering from sudden cardiac arrest, a condition which kills an estimated 365,000 people in North America annually. AEDs are commonly present in public settings, like airports, shopping centers, hotels, fitness centers, schools, corporate offices, and throughout the world of sports and recreation.

Cardiac Science is a global leader in the development, manufacture and marketing of diagnostic and therapeutic cardiology products and services that help protect hearts and save lives. Their Powerheart AEDs provide reliable, safe, and intelligent cardiac monitoring and defibrillation technology that significantly reduces time to defibrillation.

'Although sailing is considered a safe and healthy sport, the element of water brings a level of risk involved that requires attention and preparation,' said Sam Murray, chief medical officer for US Sailing. We encourage yacht clubs and sailing programs around the country to take advantage of this opportunity with US Sailing and Cardiac Science and purchase an AED as a standard proactive step towards providing the safest possible environment for all sailors.'

'Cardiac Science applauds US Sailing for being so forward-thinking,' said Mike Brode, Director of Strategic Business for Cardiac Science. 'With this AED partnership, US Sailing is taking leadership stance to educate and protect their membership. While everyone is vulnerable to sudden cardiac arrest, recreational and athletic activities need to have AED access in yacht clubs, at sailing competitions and training events, and on the watercrafts. The event participants (and those who come to support them) will be safer as a result of this alliance.'

For more information on how to purchase a Powerheart G3 Plus AED Package or to schedule a demonstration, contact Cardiac Science at (800) 991-5465 or visit http://cardiacscience.com.