Lifesaving technology to assist in police emergency response

A recent donation of Automated External Defibrillators will better equip Hawaiʻi Island police officers when responding to cardiac emergencies.

The Hilo Benioff Medical Center Foundation and the Max and Yetta Karasik Foundation, represented by Dr. and Mrs. Richard Robbins, donated 30 Automated External Defibrillators along with carrying cases, pediatric keys, pads, and accessories, bringing the department’s total to about 70 devices deployed across the island.

The lifesaving technology provides critical early intervention during cardiac arrest incidents and can make the difference between life and death.

“There’s no single device our officers can carry that has more impact on saving lives than an (Automated External Defibrillator), and our goal is to equip every patrol officer with one,” said Interim Police Chief Reed Mahuna. “The Hawai‘i Police Department is unique in that each officer uses their own patrol vehicle, which ensures they have all of their equipment with them at all times. By placing an Automated External Defibrillator in every vehicle, our officers have the ability to respond on or off duty.”

The August 26 donation marks the third major Automated External Defibrillator donation to Hawai‘i Police Department from the Hilo Benioff Medical Center Foundation and its partners, following contributions in 2015 and 2020.

Together, these donations have provided officers with dozens of Automated External Defibrillators and accessories, enhancing the department’s ability to deliver lifesaving aid in emergencies across Hawai‘i Island.