OHIO continues to enhance campus safety with new AED installations

Ohio University’s Athens campus has recently bolstered its emergency preparedness with the installation of five new Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in key residential areas. This initiative, in consultation with Student Senate, aims to improve access to life-saving equipment for students living on campus.

The new AEDs were strategically placed in high-traffic, residential areas to ensure the greatest amount of visibility and access to students. These new locations include Gamerstfelder, Dougan and Treudley laundry centers, as well as Jefferson East End and the Living Learning Center on South Green.

“Installing AED’s in highly visible and accessible public spaces on each green ensures a greater level of access for all students,” Jneanne Hacker, director of Housing and Residence Life, said. “All residential, commuter and off-campus students have access to green engagement centers like the Living Learning Center and Jefferson East End, which means increased availability of AEDs in case of a cardiac emergency involving students, faculty, staff or visitors."

According to Hacker, The Den in Boyd Hall has also recently been renovated as a west green engagement center and Housing and Residence Life plans to continue collaborating with Student Senate to identify a location to install an AED within this space as well.

Prior to the new installation, there were already 69 AEDs installed in public locations across Athens campus. Locations of AED’s can be found by visiting:  https://www.ohio.edu/facilities/safety/aed-locations

This initiative began when the Residence Life Commission of Student Senate passed a bill advocating for the installation of additional AEDs. Following this, detailed planning and coordination with Housing and Residence Life, as well as with the campus safety department, led to the implementation of these devices.

“This was an exciting and collaborative project to work alongside Student Senate,” Hacker added. “Their advocacy for the installation of AEDs across campus, leadership for creating change that supports the health and safety of our campus community and level of professionalism demonstrated in both research and presentation on the importance of the initiative should be commended. I look forward to another successful year of partnering with Student Senate as we collaborate on positive change that positively impacts students and their campus experience.” 

Ohio University and Housing and Residence Life prioritizes the safety of all residential students, offering various resources and services such as “Let’s Talk Hours” and full-time, professional staff to ensure a safe and comfortable living experience.

Students are also encouraged to play an active role in their safety and the safety of others by implementing strategies such as locking bedroom doors, walking with friends across campus, getting to know RA’s, becoming familiar with campus resources and reporting tools, and reaching out with a need or concern to a faculty or staff member who are committed to students’ safety and success.

In case of an emergency or suspicious activity, students should call the Ohio University Police Department (OUPD).