Scavenger Hunt Organized To Save Lives In This Bay Area County

MARIN COUNTY, CA — The County of Marin has crafted a fun activity this summer that could help locals find life-saving devices in times of emergency.

The Marin County Health and Human Services Department's Emergency Medical Services division is hosting a public scavenger hunt. This event aims to help community members find Automated External Defibrillators in their local areas.

“Knowing where your nearest AED is can make the difference between life and death,” Chris Le Baudour, County of Marin EMS administrator, told Patch. “That's why we've partnered with local emergency services, community partners, and Pulse Point to organize a fun, interactive way for residents to become familiar with AEDs and map them for the community.”

This initiative is part of a countywide effort to raise awareness about AEDs in the month leading up to HHS's free annual Sidewalk CPR training event in August. These devices are crucial for resuscitating individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, which is one of the leading causes of death in Marin, according to county officials.

AEDs can significantly improve survival rates when used within the first few minutes of a cardiac emergency. Despite their importance, many people are unaware of their locations within the community. Registering these devices helps community members quickly find these life-saving tools.

“Raising awareness in a hands-on way empowers our residents,” Le Baudour told Patch. “The more people who know how to find and use an AED, the safer our community becomes.”

Scavenger Hunt Details

While out on everyday activities in public locations residents should look for AED devices.

• When found, snap a photo and complete the “AED Scavenger Hunt” submission form.
• Submissions are accepted July 16 through Aug. 16.
• There is no limit to the number of entries one can submit.
• EMS staff will review the submissions, and unregistered devices will be added to the network.
• Prizes are awarded to the top five individuals to find the most unregistered AED devices.

Residents can learn how to operate AED devices during the annual Sidewalk CPR event held throughout Marin 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Aug. 16.