Automated external defibrillators will be placed in busy or remote parks
WHAT: First of 25 accessible AEDs installed at Hillsborough County parks
WHEN: 2 p.m. Friday, June 6
WHERE: Skyway Sports Complex, 3901 George Rd., Tampa, FL 33634
Hillsborough County, Fla. (June 5, 2025) - When it comes to a cardiac emergency, the difference between life and death can be measured in seconds. That's why putting automated external defibrillators, or AEDs, in Hillsborough County parks and making them accessible to anyone at any time is so important.
On Friday, June 6, Hillsborough County and the American Heart Association will celebrate the installation of the first of 25 defibrillators that will be placed at the County's most popular and most remote parks. Having an AED administered within three minutes of a cardiac emergency significantly improves chances of survival. The defibrillators placed in County parks are designed so almost anyone can use them with no training.
The defibrillators will be kept in a locked cabinet in a publicly accessible location at each park. To gain access to the cabinet, anyone can call 911, and the dispatcher will give them the access code to the cabinet. The requirement to call 911 first ensures that first responders are immediately notified of the medical emergency.
Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation has made a strong effort to make AEDs available in County-run parks. Last year, the County placed 50 defibrillators at parks and sports complexes with athletic leagues. The AEDs were a gift from the American Heart Association.
The ceremony marking the installation of the first of the new AEDs will be at 2 p.m. Friday, June 6, at Skyway Sports Complex, 3901 George Rd., Tampa, FL 33634.