HAMPDEN – HeartSafe Communities is a group of residents from Hampden, Newburgh and Winterport who are working toward placing an automatic external defibrillator unit in each school in SAD 22 and in places throughout the community where athletic events are held.

An AED is a lightweight, portable device that automatically analyzes heart rhythms and determines whether a shock is needed. It is used to treat sudden cardiac arrest. The device is easy to use, safe and effective.

Cardiac arrest is uncommon among young people, but sometimes a child gets hit in the chest with a soccer ball, or an athlete gets struck by lightning while playing on an outside field. With early defibrillation, these victims have a greater chance of survival.

Sudden cardiac arrest is usually caused by ventricular fibrillation. Defibrillation is the only proven treatment to restore a normal heart rhythm. CPR alone may not work, although it will buy the victim time until an AED can get there.

The cost of each unit is approximately $2,000. All funds received will go towards the purchase of a unit, its maintenance and education tools needed to instruct individuals on its use.

Organizers said their goal was to raise $25,000-$30,000. Funds will be held in an account managed by CQE, a charitable organization in Hampden, and are tax-deductible. Pledges of $500 or more will have the name of the contributor on a plaque on one of the units.

Contributions already have been received from the Boosters, Hampden-Winterport Youth Hockey and Nurse Anesthetists of Maine. So far, enough money has been raised to purchase three AEDs.

To donate to the project, make checks payable to HeartSafe Communities-CQE and mail to P.O. Box 56, Hampden 04444. Write “HeartSafe Communities” on the subject line. For information, e-mail LMarsh4444@adelphia.net or LGilio@adelphia.net.