~ Application Packet (.pdf)
      ~ Application Process
      ~ Dutchess County HEART Safe Community Application Form (.pdf)
      ~ Additional Documents and Resources
            Glossary of Terms  /  Questions & Answers
      ~ Sample AED Response Plan (.pdf)
      ~ Contact Info

Less than five percent of sudden cardiac arrest victims survive because a majority of people witnessing the arrest did not know CPR.

To help increase the survival of those who experience a sudden cardiac arrest in Dutchess County, County Executive William R. Steinhaus charged the Dutchess County Department of Health with the implementation of the HEART Safe Communities program.  This program is based on incentives and recognition to all those who meet specific criteria that have the potential for saving the lives of sudden cardiac arrest victims through the use of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and increased public access to defibrillation.

   Do I live in a HEART Safe Community?  Do I work for a HEART Safe Entity?  The answers to these questions could determine whether or not your community or agency qualifies as to be designated HEART Safe:

If someone in your community suffers a sudden cardiac arrest tomorrow, how likely is he or she to survive due to rapid access to life-saving treatment?

• How many residents and public safety officials in your community can recognize the symptoms of cardiac arrest and know how to get help “on the way, right away”?
• Who knows cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in your agency/community and is prepared to administer it when necessary?
• Where are automated external defibrillators (AEDs) located, and who has been trained to use them appropriately?
  
  

  A HEART Safe designation is determined by meeting basic and category specific criteria. To obtain a HEART Safe designation, please complete the Dutchess County HEART Safe Communities Application Form.

For questions or more information, please call (845) 486-3559.