Discovery Co-op service stations have been outfitted with new automated external defibrillator machines.
The purchase came out of the co-op’s commitment to community and employee safety and an incident in which an employee had a heart attack while at work, said Co-op gas bar manager Dave Rogers.
Fundraising began last summer, with the North Battleford Lions Club pitching in a portion of the cost of the three machines, that cost approximately $1,500. The remaining amount was covered by Discovery Co-op. Each location of the Co-op gas stations in North Battleford and Battleford will carry the life-saving machines.
While other businesses have AED machines open to the public, Rogers noted that Co-op gas stations are open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., providing a larger window of access if needed. Rogers added that an employee trained in the use of the AED will be on site at all times.
“Hopefully we never have to use it, but it’s there if need be,” Rogers said.
