KRALENDIJK - Fundashon Hart voor Bonaire is distributing free AEDs to locations where many people gather. The foundation has been operating for fifteen years and aims to make Bonaire a heart-safe island.
The kitesurfing beach Kiters Paradise between Pink Beach and the Willemstoren lighthouse is the first location to receive an AED. Heart for Bonaire has previously donated AEDs to Crusada, Terra Barra, the sailing club at Kas de Regatta, and the swimming club at Kaya Engelhardt.
Action following personal loss
Sandy van Eisden started the initiative after losing her husband to cardiac arrest. "Despite CPR, but possibly because there was no AED nearby, he could not be saved," according to the Heart for Bonaire board. Van Eisden received several donated AEDs and asked the foundation for help with distribution.
Requirements for AED donation
Locations that want to be considered for a free AED must meet certain criteria. There must be regular gatherings of many people, the AED must be easily accessible, and there should preferably be supervision present to prevent vandalism.
Call for applications
The board encourages people to apply through Heart for Bonaire’s Facebook page. The number of AEDs available for donation is limited. The foundation will assess whether locations meet the requirements.
BLS courses available
Heart for Bonaire also encourages residents to take BLS (Basic Life Support) courses. Many companies and institutions now have employees trained as first responders. For courses, people can contact trainer Tom Lensink at phone number 7000559.
