Parkland Board approves new AED installations and educational campaign for community safety

The Parkland Parks and Recreation Advisory Board convened on July 7, 2025, to discuss several key initiatives aimed at enhancing community engagement and safety within local parks. The meeting began with a focus on the upcoming celebration of the United States' 250th anniversary. Board members reviewed potential event titles, ultimately favoring "Star Scribe and Sunshine Celebrating Freedom Under the Florida Sun," which aims to incorporate a Floridian flair into the festivities.

Following the event planning discussion, the board shifted its attention to the topic of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in local parks. Daniel Strachman presented findings from a subcommittee dedicated to improving AED accessibility and education. The committee proposed the installation of AEDs at three locations: Taramar Park, Pine Trails Park, and Wedge Park. Specific recommendations included placing AEDs near bathrooms and sports fields to ensure they are easily accessible during events.

Strachman emphasized the importance of not only installing these devices but also implementing an educational campaign to inform the community about their presence and proper usage. The board suggested adding "Stop the Bleed" kits alongside the AEDs and enhancing signage to guide users in emergencies. The committee's recommendations are set to be forwarded to the commission for further consideration and potential funding.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to support the AED initiative and the event planning, marking a proactive step towards improving community safety and engagement in Parkland. The board will continue to monitor these initiatives and provide updates in future meetings.