The details
AEDs are portable devices used to treat sudden cardiac arrest by delivering an electrical shock to the heart. According to the Food and Drug Administration, the shock can restore the heart's normal rhythm and provide life-saving measures.
The Bellaire Police and Fire Foundation, a nonprofit organization created by Bellaire residents and business owners, gifted the fire department a $69,530 grant to purchase approximately 29 new AEDs to be placed throughout the city, including in emergency service vehicles such as fire trucks, police cars and public work vehicles. Before the donation, the city only had 17 AEDs, with 13 spread out among city facilities and four on emergency apparatuses, Tittel said.
"What makes these 29 AEDs unique is the fact that they communicate with each other," Tittel said. "So any time there is an issue, a low battery or whatnot, we will get an alert at the fire station on our system so that we can get that repaired."
Tittel said if someone uses an AED throughout the city, it will also alert the fire department and a nearby ambulance.
"I am very proud that the city is going to be able to accept this donation ... and really take a chance to make a difference and save an individual's life in the future," he said. "We are very excited about this project and this grant we will be receiving and the implementation as things continue to move forward."
City Council members also approved an ordinance Oct. 6 to authorize City Manager Sharon Citino to sign a letter of intent to purchase a new fire engine in an amount not to exceed $1.6 million.
Tittel said the higher price tag is due to the city of Bellaire needing a custom model that can carry a 35-foot ladder. According to FirstRescue1, an online platform on firefighter education, an average firetruck costs around $1 million and carries a 14-foot roof ladder and a 24-foot extension ladder.
"Bellaire is unique," Tittel said. "We don't have small homes in Bellaire; we have multiple large homes throughout the city, so we have to carry a 35-foot ladder, but they do not make a stop fire truck that will carry a 35-foot ladder. So, every fire truck that the city purchases has to be custom-built."
The new fire truck is expected to be purchased from Metro Fire Apparatus Specialists Inc., a fire protection equipment supplier in Houston, for close to the $1.6 million price tag.
Tittel said the new fire truck would be ready for use in the city about 18-24 months from the start of the build date. The new truck will replace a 2003 Pierce Saber, a 22-year-old model with mechanical issues.
