Somerset’s commissioners approved the PulsePoint Respond notification system — which enables county 911 officials to send an emergency alert to nearby people who may be able to help.
CPR-trained citizens who download the app on their phones receive an alert if someone is nearby suffering cardiac arrest — as well as the closest portable AED (automated external defibrillator) device, Somerset County 911 Operations Manager Craig Hollis-Nicholson said.
“If someone is out shopping at Walmart and falls to the floor, there might be someone nearby who is able and willing to help — until emergency responders arrive,” he said.
It may be just a few minutes sooner than a responding ambulance — “but those three minutes might help save a life,” Somerset Commission Irv Kimmel Jr. said.
Hollis-Nicholson said the county previously tried a free version of the software that directed emergency responders to nearby defibrillators.
The expanded version builds on that, helping 911 officials build a countywide network of engaged citizens — emergency personnel and the public alike — who can step in and render aid, he said.
A $25,000 grant from the 1889 Foundation funded the system, which includes a $10,500 subscription and a $10,000 initial cost that includes 911 components, the board said.
Hollis-Nicholson and Somerset’s commissioners credited the foundation for its support.
They encouraged those who are CPR-trained to download the PulsePoint app to enable the county to start building its network of helping hands.
Nicholson said the app also alerts the public about other emergency situations in their neighborhood — through message-style “push notifications” on their phones — such as fire alarms or other medical emergencies, “so it can raise awareness about incidents that are happening in the community,” he said.
Cambria and Allegheny counties are already using the application, Hollis-Nicholson said, and the county has gotten positive reviews about it.
The app is free to download.
It is available through through the GooglePlay and Apple-based App Store.
'ROAD' AHEAD
Somerset County’s three commissioners held Tuesday’s meeting at the Conemaugh Township Municipal Building.
It was the county’s third evening meeting on the road — a move the board implemented to give county residents a more convenient chance to observe and participate in the county government process.
The meeting drew eight local residents Tuesday. Previous meetings were held in Salisbury and Shanksville.
Somerset County President Commissioner Brian Fochtman said he’s pleased overall with the response.
He said the county will schedule three or four more “road meetings” in different locations next year.
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