LUCAN BIDDULPH PUTS LIFE-SAVING EQUIPMENT
WHERE IT MATTERS MOST
Four New Outdoor AEDs Installed in Local Parks - Driven by Community,
Inspired by a Local Survivor
Lucan Biddulph, ON - When a local resident collapsed on the ice during a recreational hockey game in January 2025, the people around them did everything right. They recognized what was happening, started CPR immediately, and critically, had access to an AED. Thankfully, that person survived.
That experience sparked a question about 24/7 public access to AEDs in the community outdoors, especially in parks where sports were played, trails were walked, and homes surrounding the parks could have access to this lifesaving tool.
The Township of Lucan Biddulph is proud to announce the installation of four outdoor SaveStation® automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in local parks. The weatherproof, climate-controlled units provide the community with 24/7 access to life-saving equipment, year-round.
A Community That Shows Up
The initiative was set in motion by the Merner family, local residents who wanted to give back after witnessing firsthand how access to an AED can mean the difference between life and death. They didn't have to look far for support. Local councillor Daniel Regan, the Lucan Ilderton Baseball Association, the Lucan Soccer Club, and the Lucan Biddulph Fire Department all quickly rallied behind the cause.
"Expanding access to AEDs in our outdoor spaces is a meaningful step toward a safer, more prepared community," said Mayor Cathy Burghardt-Jesson. "This reflects what makes Lucan Biddulph special - people showing up for one another. Through the Merners' leadership and the generosity of our community partners, we're ensuring that help is always within reach when it matters most."
The four SaveStation® units are now installed at:
- Lucan Biddulph Community Memorial Centre (263 Main Str.)
- Donated by Lucan Ilderton Baseball Association, Jan & Daniel Regan
- Lucan Soccer Complex (260 Campanale Way)
- Donated by Lucan Soccer Club, Jan & Daniel Regan
- Elm Street Park (111 Elm Street)
- Donated by the Optimist Club of Lucan
- Market Street Park (131 Market Str.)
- Donated by Lucan Biddulph Fire Department - Proceeds from Breakfast Fund
You're Invited: Public Unveiling & Hands-On Demonstration
The community is invited to join Township leaders, the Merner family, and local partners for a ribbon-cutting ceremonies on Wednesday, April 22nd at 10:00 a.m. starting at Lucan Biddulph Community Memorial Centre and then moving to other locations.
The event will include a live, hands-on CPR and AED demonstration - a practical, confidence-building opportunity for anyone who wants to know what to do in a cardiac emergency.
Why This Matters
Sudden cardiac arrest can strike anyone, at any time. Each year, approximately 7,000 Ontarians and 60,000 Canadians experience cardiac arrest, and up to 85% of cases occur at home or in public places. When someone's heart stops, every minute without a defibrillator reduces survival odds significantly.
"Call 911, start CPR, and send someone for the AED," said Deb Hennig, President of Action First Aid. "Those three steps can make all the difference."
Inside every SaveStation is a defibrillator (AED) that is simple to use and ready when needed. These heated, ventilated, alarmed, and weather-resistant outdoor cabinets help ensure the AED inside remains accessible 24/7, year-round. The AED provides clear voice prompts and visual diagrams to guide users step by step and will only deliver a shock if it detects one is needed.