Graafschap Fire Department Receives Grant for AED Training Equipment: A Boost for Local Community Health

The Graafschap Fire Department has been granted $3,377 by the Community Enhancement Program (CEP) of the Macatawa Area Coordinating Council (MACC). The grant will fund the purchase of two automated external defibrillator (AED) trainers. These devices analyze heart rhythm and can deliver an electric shock to restore normal rhythm. This follows a previous grant from the CEP for cardiopulmonary resuscitation mannequins.

The fire department will use the AED trainers for internal CPR/AED classes and public training. This is part of their Community Risk Reduction Program, which also offers free home safety inspections, blood pressure checks, and blood drives. The department serves Laketown Township and part of Fillmore Township.

Two fire department members are studying to become AED instructors. Once certified, they will teach staff and the public to use the rescue equipment. The grant covers the cost of the training equipment, which mimics the AED process without delivering a shock. The department’s general fund covers the instructor certification cost.

The MACC encourages cooperation among local government units on area-wide issues. It includes Holland and Zeeland cities and several townships. The CEP, a collaboration of five MACC members including Laketown Township, was established in 2018. It aims to support public service efforts that improve life quality and economic vitality in the Holland/Zeeland community.

Jason Latham, CEP secretary and MACC executive director, hopes the grant will contribute to a successful project that will benefit the region. He highlighted the organization's goal to fund efforts that promote regional unity.

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