Operation AED is underway at the Mathews Volunteer Rescue Squad.

This community-wide project seeks to identify the location of all AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) in Mathews County so their location can be made known in case of emergency. An AED is a medical device that analyzes the heart’s rhythm and, if necessary, will deliver an electrical shock to help re-establish an effective rhythm. Mathews County has had three lives saved through the use of AEDs in the past 15 months.

Once AED locations are identified and shared with the public, MVRS plans to develop better signage so people will be more aware of each AED location. In addition, the squad will work with organizations to place more AEDs in areas that currently do not have any available.

Volunteers from MVRS will be calling or visiting all commercial buildings, churches, restaurants and locations where meetings are held to map current AED locations. Some commercial properties have already been contacted, but MVRS...