Gadsden State police vehicles to carry defibrillators, Narcan

Gadsden State Community College’s fledgling police department now has a couple of extra tools to keep students on its campuses safe.

Each of the department’s vehicles is now equipped with an automated external defibrillator (AEDs) and Narcan, the medication used to reverse opioid overdoses.

“This is a significant enhancement in our emergency response capabilities,” Chief Jay Freeman said in a news release from the college. “This ensures that our team can promptly and effectively respond to medical emergencies across all five campuses located in three counties.”

GSCC has three campuses in Etowah County (East Broad, Valley Street and Wallace Drive) as well as the Ayers Campus in Anniston and the Cherokee campus in Centre.

A Cardinal Safety Training Program also has been instituted, according to the release, and will provide training in the use of AEDs and Narcan, plus CPR, to all school employees.

Freeman said these steps reflect GSCC’s commitment to the safety and well-being of those on its campuses.

“We are dedicated to continuously enhancing our skills and resources to ensure we can respond effectively to emergencies,” he said. “These initiatives are a testament to our proactive approach to safeguarding our campuses and supporting the health and security of everyone at Gadsden State.”

Call 256-549-4611 for more information on the Cardinal Safety Training Program.