TORONTO, May 13, 2024
/CNW/ - The Toronto Downtown West Business Improvement Area
(TDWBIA) is pleased to announce the installation of Toronto's first outdoor SaveStation at the CN
Tower.
The area, known for its vibrant Entertainment District, welcomes
over 19 million visitors annually. Situated at the base of the CN
Tower, the installation of the lifesaving Automated External
Defibrillator (AED) ensures round-the-clock public access during
emergencies. The Outdoor SaveStation technology paired with the
Zoll AED 3 guarantees the device is always 'ready for rescue',
while maintaining climate control to ensure optimal functionality
in all seasons. Additionally, there is a built-in camera that acts
as a security feature by taking a series of photos each time the
cabinet is opened, along with an alarm that will alert others of an
emergency.
First Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik
stated, "This initiative demonstrates the BIA's continued
commitment to public safety and community partnerships. We
appreciate the collaboration between the TDWBIA, CN Tower, and
Action First Aid in finding proactive measures that safeguard
the wellbeing of Torontonians and visitors".
Sudden cardiac arrest can happen to anyone at any time, and when
it strikes, every second matters. According to the Heart &
Stroke Foundation of Canada, for
every minute that defibrillation is delayed, the chance of survival
decreases by 10%. In Canada, more
than 60,000 people suffer out-of-hospital cardiac arrests each
year. Currently, only around 10% of people survive. Studies show
that the immediate use of an AED combined with CPR can increase the
likelihood of survival by 75% or more, however, all too often, AEDs
are not publicly accessible.
"The TDWBIA has played a key role in recognizing and addressing
the need for publicly accessible AEDs," commented Deb Hennig, President of Action First Aid.
"Providing 24/7 access to a life-saving AED is critical as every
second counts when sudden cardiac arrest strikes. Access to
an AED under 4 minutes is the goal. We are celebrating the
placement at the base of the CN Tower given the millions of people
that visit this area annually".
The increase in development projects, infrastructure work, and
road closures, combined with a rising population in the area
presents challenges for Emergency Medical Services. Mike Josifovic,
TDWBIA's Director of Safety & Security remarked, "We have
developed strategies with a number of community stakeholders that
aim to foster a safe environment. SaveStations support City
services in protecting the public in this 24/7 neighbourhood".
About the Toronto Downtown West BIA
Toronto
Downtown West BIA represents a vibrant urban community of the best
in arts & culture, hospitality, sports and business. The area
comprises some of the city's most iconic cultural landmarks
including: the CN Tower, EdgeWalk, the Scotiabank Arena, Four
Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, Steam Whistle Brewing,
Toronto Railway Museum, Ripley's Aquarium of Canada, Canada's Walk of Fame, Metro Toronto
Convention Centre, Rogers Centre, Roy
Thomson Hall, Princess of Wales Theatre, Royal Alexandra
Theatre, Factory Theatre, TIFF Lightbox, 401 Richmond,
Canadian Broadcast Corporation, and Bell Media. It is home to the
best national talent including the Canadian Opera Company, National
Ballet of Canada, Toronto Symphony
Orchestra, Toronto Blue Jays, Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto
Raptors. The area has a growing population of 55,000 residents, a
workforce of 115,000, and welcomes 19 million visitors
annually.
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SOURCE Toronto Downtown West BIA