AED Subsidy Program

About the AED Subsidy Program

The Municipality of Lakeshore offers a subsidy program to help eligible service clubs and organizations purchase and install a publicly accessible Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Approved applicants may receive up to 75% reimbursement for the cost of an AED and/or an outdoor cabinet, subject to available funding.

Automated External Defibrillators (AED) are an important tool used in saving the life of someone suffering sudden cardiac arrest. When used within 2-3 minutes after a cardiac arrest occurs, it can increase survival rates from approximately 10 % to 70%.

What the AED Subsidy Program covers

• Purchase of a Public Access AED
• Purchase of a defibrillator cabinet suitable to be used outdoors.
• Funding is limited and available on a first come, first serve basis.
• The subsidy is available one time only per eligible installation, per property.
• If the work is approved, authorized representatives of the organization must sign an Acknowledgement of Responsibility and Liability Waiver.

Who is Eligible for This Program? 

This program is available to service clubs and community organizations in the Municipality of Lakeshore who have the capacity to provide and maintain an AED that is accessible to the general public on a 24/7 basis.

Step-by-Step Subsidy Application Guide

1. Complete the AED Subsidy Program Intake form online. If your organization qualifies, Lakeshore Fire Rescue Services will contact you to schedule a pre-qualification site visit.
2. After confirming eligibility and a successful site visit, your organization can purchase the AED.
   • Essex-Windsor EMS can help you choose the right AED and find the best location for it. Check out their AED Information page for more.
3. Install your organization's AED.
4. Book a final inspection with Lakeshore Fire Rescue Services (by phone at 519-728-2700 or email fireadmin@lakeshore.ca)
5. After the inspection, organizations will fill and submit the following:
   • One quote
   • Invoice/Receipt to show work has been completed and paid in full (stamped “PAID”)
   • Waiver Form
   • Claims Form
6. Register your AED with Essex-Windsor EMS using the PulsePoint AED app. Registering the AED ensures emergency dispatchers can direct people to the AED during an emergency.
7. Educate members of your organization on AED usage.
   • If your group requires an AED or CPR Awareness session, contact Essex-Windsor EMS at defib@countyofessex.ca
8. Set up maintenance plan for your AED. Create a plan for your organization to do the following:
   • Check the AED weekly
   • Check the battery indicator to make sure it is fully charged
   • Check that the pads are intact and not expired
   • Contact the vendor if the pads or battery needs to be replaced