An Owen Sound city committee unanimously approved the installation of a new publicly accessible automated external defibrillator (AED) at Harrison Park, following a donation from the Tyson Downs Association.
The association was established in memory of Tyson Downs, who died from sudden cardiac arrest. Since then, the group has focused on raising awareness, promoting education, and improving survival outcomes through increased access to AEDs and CPR training.
The donated unit includes a Zoll AED 3 defibrillator housed in a heated and ventilated outdoor SaveStation cabinet, along with eight years of monitoring. The device will be installed on the exterior wall of the Harrison Park Inn, a high-traffic area near playgrounds, courts, and public amenities.
City staff identified the location as ideal due to its visibility and accessibility, with more than 150,000 vehicles entering the park annually.
The Community Services Committee also approved City Hall and Kelso Beach at Nawash Park as future potential locations for additional AED installations, pending technical feasibility.
Staff estimate installation costs between $500 and $1,000, which will be covered by the City. The goal is to have the unit operational by June 2026.
Officials note that immediate use of an AED, combined with CPR, can increase survival rates from sudden cardiac arrest by 75 percent or more.
The City will also support the Tyson Downs Association through public education and awareness efforts, helping expand access to life-saving tools across the community.
